Featured in this lot is a 19th Century Chinese Eight Immortals Ginger Jar converted to a Table Lamp on a wood base.. The Eight Immortals are a group of legendary xian (immortals) in Chinese mythology. Each immortal's power can be transferred to a vessel (??) that can bestow life or destroy evil. Together, these eight vessels are called the "Covert Eight Immortals" (???). Most of them are said to have been born in the Tang or Song Dynasty. They are revered by the Taoists and are also a popular element in secular Chinese culture. They are said to live on a group of five islands in the Bohai Sea, which include Mt. Penglai. The Eight Immortals are considered to be signs of prosperity and longevity, so they are popular themes in ancient and medieval art. They were frequent adornments on celadon vases. They were also common in sculptures owned by the nobility. Many silk paintings, wall murals, and wood block prints remain of the Eight Immortals. They were often depicted either together in one group, or alone to give more homage to that specific immortal. This ginger jar lamp depicts the Eight Immortals crossing the sea on the backs of sea creatures, one featured on the cap top. Chinese logograms (Hanzi) are displayed in four vertical rows between either end of the Eight Immortals scene. This ginger jar lamp is in fair to good overall condition, visible cracks and chipping with some repairs. Very colourful, soft blue/white base colour. Modern lamp single bulb socket and cord. Wood base has visible chipping and scuffing. Measures 16"H x 8.5" diameter, 24"H x 8.5" diameter with lamp shade bracket.