A display highlighting the interaction between the monarchy and the wider world
Li Hung Chang, writing his name in the Queen's Birthday Book, 5 August 1896 ©
The Daoist Immortal ‘Magu’ is a symbol of longevity and the protector of women – making this plaque a suitable gift for Queen Victoria in the latter years of her reign. Magu appears as a beautiful youth of 18 or 19 years of age, but is said to have been active for many centuries. Her endurance is emphasised here by the shou (long life) character which appears on the black pendant of her robe, and the crane by her side – a creature thought to live for 1000 years. The plaque was presented to Queen Victoria in 1896 by the Special Chinese Ambassador Li Hongzhang (1823–1901) on behalf of the Guangxu Emperor. Li Hongzhang travelled to the United Kingdom as part of a diplomatic tour following the coronation of Nicholas II in Moscow.
