Daoist immortal Li Tieguai (Japanese: Tekkai) c. 1830 - 1844

This Japanese woodblock print depicts the Daoist immortal Li Tieguai, or Tekkai as he's known here, and was created by Katsushika Taito II in the 19th century. Notice the crutch and gourd, signs of his immortal status, and a wisp of smoke escaping from it, suggesting his spirit is flying away. The figure of the immortal, particularly the crutch, speaks of both physical frailty and spiritual strength. We see echoes of this motif across cultures—think of the biblical Moses with his staff or the wizened shamans of Siberian lore. The crutch is not merely a support but a symbol of power, guiding and steadying the journey, hinting at the endurance and wisdom that comes with age and experience. This image, like all images, carries a memory, a resonance that vibrates through time. It’s a testament to how symbols evolve, adapt, and continue to speak to us.