Daoist God Zhenwu (Perfected Warrior), Supreme Emperor of the Dark Heaven Possibly 1368 - 1644

This bronze sculpture, "Daoist God Zhenwu (Perfected Warrior), Supreme Emperor of the Dark Heaven," depicts a seated figure of Zhenwu, a powerful Daoist deity often associated with the north and the protection of the cosmos. Created by Chen Yanqing during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), the sculpture demonstrates the artist's skill in capturing the deity's majestic presence, with intricate details in the figure's robes and the silvered hair, which stands out against the golden finish. This piece, currently housed at The Art Institute of Chicago, is a prime example of Ming dynasty bronze sculpture and offers insight into the visual expression of Daoist deities during that era.