Zhang Xian Shooting an Arrow at the Tiangou
Pigment and gold on prepared fabric

Note:
The present work depicts the hero Zhang Xian protecting young boys from the threat of the eclipse-causing Heavenly Dog. This subject was popular in China, with talismanic power to secure health and good fortune for children, particularly boys. The present work is unusual, as it incorporates stylistic traits and techniques more typically associated with Tibetan thangka, suggesting a commission from a Tibetan or Tibetan-train artist.