A collaboration between
Nicholas Hauser
and James de Villiers.
Concept and Artwork by Nicholas Hauser.
Printing and presentation by
James de Villiers.
A specially boxed collection of four silkscreened prints with the Hsien Manifesto and a
Certificate of Authenticity.
Each Hsien print measures 70 x 50 cm.
An initial edition of twenty boxed portfolio sets.
For enquiries please email: jamesdevilliers.jdv@gmail.com
Our Hsien Visual Prayers
for good governance,
conscience, meditation
and compassion.
Good governance of the self.
Good governance of your relationship to other people.
Good governance of your place in the pattern of existence, environment and energy.
There is a long history of human beings from all cultures petitioning images for an improvement in their futures and fortunes. We think perhaps of the great fetishes; Nkonde Nkisi, of the Golden Calf, Ganesha, the Crucifix, the Virgin.
Not forgetting “likes”, blue ticks and thumbs-up approvals of latterday digital mediums.
Objects of sacrifice, devotion or appreciation
are not unfamiliar. Neither are our pre-determined
sequences of words, prayers, incantations and manifest verbal recitations.
If then, these spoken rituals embody an improved sense of security, comfort and well-being - and we believe we can utter or speak something better into existence; then why may we not likewise believe ourselves capable of looking, viewing, seeing, watching or gazing something into existence?
In short, could a design alone, perhaps function as
a potent prayer?
A picture prayer.
Thus, by simply looking at it briefly - or for an extended period of time - we might improve our optimism, our hope and our energy levels using the eye as the primary agent of acquisition and ultimately of transformation.
What this portfolio of original “Hsien” images simply seeks to do is say :
“Here, look at these images. Feel better “
The Hsien Visual Prayer Portfolio is available to order through this site.
Our portfolio presentation boxes are handmade and although we have a limited reserve stock, depending on demand, it may take up to a week to fulfil your order.
The cost of a Hsien Visual Prayer Portfolio is ZAR 16,000. Click here for Currency Converter.
This price does not include shipping costs, so please enquire as to the full cost before ordering.
Please supply your location details to where the portfolio must be delivered in the contact form provided below.
Payment may be made through EFT.
Details of payment procedure will be forwarded upon receiving your order.
You may also email us directly at jamesdevilliers.jdv@gmail.com for your order or any queries.
The word "hsien" (also spelled "xian") has two main meanings in Chinese culture. In popular Chinese religion, it refers to a group of benevolent spirits who promote good in the world. These spirits are often depicted as immortal beings who have achieved enlightenment through Taoist practices. In Chinese government, a hsien is a county or district.
The term "hsien" originated in ancient China, when it was used to refer to a high-ranking official. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to include the concept of an immortal being. In Taoism, hsien are believed to have achieved immortality through a combination of physical and spiritual practices. These practices include meditation, dietary restrictions, and the ingestion of elixirs.
Hsien are often depicted in Chinese art and literature. They are typically shown as being young and beautiful, with long flowing hair and white robes. Hsien are often accompanied by animals, such as the crane, the tortoise, and the deer. These animals are symbolic of longevity and immortality.
The belief in hsien is still prevalent in Chinese culture today. Many people believe that hsien exist and that they can help to bring good fortune to those who worship them. Hsien are also often seen as symbols of hope and inspiration.
Here are some additional things to know about hsien:
They are often said to live in remote mountains or forests.
They are said to have supernatural powers, such as the ability to fly and to control the weather.
They are often depicted as being benevolent and helpful to humans.
They are sometimes said to be the ancestors of humans.
The belief in hsien is a fascinating part of Chinese culture. It reflects the Chinese people's desire for immortality and their belief in the power of the supernatural.
Background image: Traditional Chinese character for "Hsien".
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The Hsien Prayer Print Portfolio