Artist: Yan Liben, d. 673.
Title: An emperor from the scroll of emperors.
Material: polychrome painting on silk
Site:
Current Location: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.
Period/Date: Tang Dynasty
Iconography/Iconology: See previous screen. In this painting , it is
interesting to note that the hat worn by the emperor includes a curtain
of pearls hung in front of his face. This device was worn so as to not allow
the emperor's face to be seen clearly, thus safeguarding his countenance
and spiritual being from magical attacks.
Stylistic Comments: see previous screen. Although the painting represents
thirteen emperors of the past, each is shown wearing contemporary Tang costumes.
