Zhao Gongming, God of Wealth—Chinese Scroll Feng Shui Painting , National-Level Master, 180x70cm

Description

Caishen (Zhao Gongming ), the God of Wealth, is one of the most venerated deities in Chinese folk religion and Taoism — a divine figure believed to bestow prosperity, business success, and financial abundance upon those who honor him. His image has been a beloved Chinese lucky charm in homes and businesses for centuries, and his story is deeply rooted in Chinese mythology, history, and classical literature.

This artwork is a Xuan paper scroll painting featuring the image of Zhao Gongming, the God of Wealth, created using the renowned Puhui (ash‑rubbing) New Year painting technique from the Weifang region of Shandong Province. As a treasured folk art form of the Qilu region, Puhui painting is distinguished by its unique process of charcoal‑powder sketching and hand‑applied coloring, producing vivid figures and rich, vibrant hues that are deeply imbued with local character and folk charm.

In the inland areas where Qilu and Central Plains culture prevail, hanging a portrait of the God of Wealth during the Spring Festival and other important holidays is an indispensable part of festive rituals. People believe that when the scroll painting of Zhao Gongming is solemnly displayed in the main hall of the home, the festive atmosphere reaches its climax. At that moment, every household places carefully prepared food offerings before the image, burns incense, and bows in worship, expressing sincere reverence for the God of Wealth and praying that Zhao Gongming will bestow his blessings upon the family, bringing prosperity and peace throughout the coming year.

An Introduction to the Features of Zhao Gongming by National-Level Masters

The creators of such works are primarily master painters who hold the title of Shandong Provincial Arts and Crafts Master. Their depictions of Zhao Gongming are especially renowned for the vivid, lifelike expression in the eyes and the distinct characterization of the deity. In traditional Chinese folk painting, the soul of a divine image often resides in its eyes—since ancient times, the degree of expressiveness in the eyes has been regarded as a key criterion for judging the mastery of an artist. In the works of these masters, Zhao Gongming’s gaze is deep and warm, and no matter where the viewer stands, it seems as if the God of Wealth is looking directly at them. This unique sensation of being “constantly watched” leads the owner to believe that they are under the special attention and favor of the deity, thereby gaining immense comfort and confidence.

More myths and folktales about Zhao Gongming, the God of Wealth, will be elaborated in the following section. Please continue reading.

The story of the God of Wealth Zhao Gongming

The story of Zhao Gongming’s transformation into Caishen is most famously told in the classic Ming Dynasty novel Investiture of the Gods (Fengshen Yanyi, 封神演义). After the fall of the Shang Dynasty, Jiang Ziya (姜子牙) — the legendary strategist and Taoist master — was commanded by the Jade Emperor to confer divine titles upon the souls of the fallen.

Zhao Gongming was not directly named the “God of Wealth” in the investiture. Instead, he was appointed as the “Jinlong Ruyi Zhengyi Longhu Xuantan Zhenjun” (金龙如意正一龙虎玄坛真君) — the “Golden Dragon Ruyi Orthodox True Lord of the Dragon and Tiger Mysterious Altar.” His sacred duty was to “welcome auspiciousness and bestow blessings” (迎祥纳福), overseeing all matters of wealth and treasure in the mortal world.

To carry out this divine mission, Zhao Gongming was given command of four subordinate deities, each governing a different aspect of prosperity:

Together with Zhao Gongming himself, these five deities are known as the “Five Road Gods of Wealth” (五路财神) — a title that signifies their power to bring prosperity from all directions — east, west, south, north, and center.

Customary Feng Shui for Hanging Paintings of Zhao Gongming, the God of Wealth

Caishen God of Wealth is not merely a mythological figure — he is a living presence in Chinese homes and businesses. His image is traditionally displayed in living rooms, studies, or facing the main entrance, where it is believed to attract wealth and positive energy while warding off misfortune.

In feng shui practice, placing a Caishen painting in the proper location is considered an essential step in creating a harmonious and prosperous household. It is a powerful feng shui home decor element that invites abundance and protects the family’s financial well-being.

The worship of Caishen is especially prominent during the Lunar New Year. The fifth day of the first lunar month is celebrated as the birthday of the God of Wealth — a day when families open their doors and windows wide to “receive the God of Wealth” (接财神), welcoming prosperity into their homes for the year ahead. Firecrackers are set off, lions dance in the streets, and offerings are made to honor the deity who brings good fortune.

Today, Caishen remains one of the most beloved and widely worshipped deities in the Chinese world — a timeless Chinese lucky charm that bridges ancient belief and modern aspiration, carrying the hopes of countless families for prosperity, peace, and lasting good fortune.

Investment Range:

Size:180*70cm Price is 3000 USD .The others size approximately $4,200 – $14,000 USD. Final price is determined by design complexity, dimensions, and craftsmanship requirements. Please inquire for a detailed quotation.

Masterwork Ordering & Delivery Policy

Each masterwork is made to order — there is no ready stock. Please allow approximately 60 days for creation and dispatch, as each piece undergoes a meticulous, handcrafted process. Upon receiving your inquiry, we will contact you to discuss the technical details, artistic considerations, and provide a detailed, no-obligation quote. We will keep you informed of the progress throughout the entire process. For full details, or to begin your bespoke commission, please refer to our Masterwork Ordering & Delivery Policy below or contact us directly.