### **A bronze and gold splash figure of Shao Lao seated on deer**


**Late Ming period, 17th century, China**

**Height: 11cm, 4.3 inches**

Shou Lao is modelled seated on the back of a recumbent deer, dressed in a full robe, with a belt tied loosely at the waist. The deity is depicted with an exceptionally high and domed forehead, a long beard and gentle smile, holding a scroll in his left hand and his right hand resting on the head of the deer. His scant hair is gathered in a small bun at the back secured with sashes falling on both shoulders. The deer with head turned is looking up towards the deity, detailed with almond shaped eyes and branched antlers. The traces of gilding are found splashed all over the group.

Shou Lao is the bright star Canopus in the southern constellation of Argo and is worshiped as the god of longevity, usually accompanied by a deer. The deer is believed to live to a very great age and has traditionally been an emblem of immortality.