Figure, possibly the God of Wealth in His Military Aspect

Figure, possibly the God of Wealth in His Military Aspect

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The tentative identification of this figure with the God of Wealth is based on the hat that he wears. One of many popular gods in China, the God of Wealth (Cai Shen) is thought to derive from a historical figure who lived during the Qin dynasty (221–206 B.C.), and was later deified and revered for his ability to foster wealth and good fortune.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Figure, possibly the God of Wealth in His Military AspectFigure, possibly the God of Wealth in His Military AspectFigure, possibly the God of Wealth in His Military AspectFigure, possibly the God of Wealth in His Military AspectFigure, possibly the God of Wealth in His Military Aspect

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.