The Immortal Magu: A Sixteenth-Century Chinese Painting Up Close

The Davis Museum at Wellesley College presents "The Immortal Magu: A Sixteenth-Century Chinese Painting Up Close" beginning February 6, 2026, showcasing a rare Ming dynasty silk hanging scroll following extensive conservation work. The large-scale painting depicts Magu, a legendary Taoist immortal deity associated with longevity and beauty, and represents an important transitional portrayal from the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). Donated to Wellesley in 1983 by alumna Lois Levin '42, the scroll had remained hidden from public view due to its severely deteriorated condition until curator Dr. Yuhua Ding discovered it in storage in 2022.

World-renowned conservator Jing Gao led the meticulous restoration, removing old backing paper and replacing it with specialized materials from Japan, Taiwan, and China to ensure structural integrity. The painting surface was carefully washed to restore its original colors, and Gao discovered evidence of at least two previous conservation attempts. The exhibition invites visitors to appreciate both the artistic and spiritual significance of this preserved immortal deity, now saved for future generations. A special conservation discussion with Gao, colleague Deborah La Camera from TKM Studios, and Wellesley student Berit Raines '27 will take place on April 8 at 4 p.m. at Collins Cinema. The exhibition is supported by the Kathryn Wasserman Davis '28 Fund for World Cultures and Leadership, Wellesley College Friends of Art at the Davis, the Mayling Soong Foundation, and the Barbara E. Sweeny '26 Art Conservation Fund.