Artwork
Mawang: Protector of Travellers
Mawang: Protector of Travellers is a paint painting by Unknown. It dates from 1900 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Mawang: Protector of Travellers is a rectangular painting depicting a household god with distinctive attributes, accompanied by a pale horse and Chinese inscriptions.
Subject & Meaning
The figure, identified as Mawang, is shown with four arms, holding crossed blades, a resting arm, and a nearby blade, symbolizing protection. The pale horse at its feet reinforces its role as a guardian of travellers.
Technique & Style
Executed in simple, flat colors with bold outlines, the painting features hand-drawn elements, including a red maker's mark at the bottom left corner.
History & Provenance
Acquired from Mrs. Amherst-Law in 1910, the work is part of a larger set of 155 drawings (E.3177-1910 to E.3226-1910) in the collection.
Artist & collection
Domestic Scene
Giacomo and Cardinal Marco, investing Andrea, Abbot of San Zeno, with his Benefice
The Nymph of Fontainebleau
Portrait of a Woman
Madonna and Child with Saints in the Enclosed Garden
Venus and Minerva
Family Group of Four on Sofa
Wall painting from Room H of the Villa of P. Fannius Synistor at Boscoreale
