"Zhen" Altar Spirit

Hand-carved in the 19th century, this evil-conquering guardian was likely created as an offering for a family altar. At the time, people offered fruits, incense and carved spirit figures to respect ancestors, protect family and bring good fortune. "Zhen" is a protector. Armed and garbed in armor, the wooden figure cuts an imposing pose, intricately carved and resplendent in brilliant red lacquer applied over a century ago and still visible today.