Lan Caihe : The Gender Fluid Immortal

Lan Caihe

Introduction

Lan Caihe, known as one of the Eight Immortals in the Taoist pantheon, emerges as a captivating figure in Chinese mythology. Their inclusion among the Eight Immortals elevates them to a position of familiarity within the vast array of Taoist immortals. Adding an extra layer of intrigue to Lan Caihe’s character is the ambiguity surrounding their gender. As one of the celebrated Eight Immortals, Lan Caihe becomes a symbol of carefree wandering, musical artistry, and a defiance of societal norms. However, in contrast to their more clearly defined counterparts, Lan remains enshrouded in an alluring mist, with whispers and conjecture surrounding aspects such as their age, gender, and even their origins.

Physical Traits

Lan Caihe’s artistic portrayal often captures a young adult adorned in flowing robes and leaves while carrying a distinctive basket. The character’s gender, however, takes on a kaleidoscopic range in various depictions by writers and artists. Lan is envisioned as an intersex individual, a man, a woman, a man with a feminine appearance, or someone who gracefully adopts different genders at different junctures. Notably, in Chinese theater, Lan may be seen donning feminine attire while speaking with a masculine voice, adding another layer of complexity to their character.

The physical manifestation of Lan Caihe serves as a creative playground, deliberately eluding fixed definitions. Often depicted as eternally youthful, Lan’s age hovers like a dream, forever suspended between the realms of childhood and adulthood. Similarly, their gender defies conventional categorizations, with various renditions portraying Lan as a boy, a girl, or an androgynous being, transcending earthly labels and embracing a spectrum of identities.

A distinctive feature in these depictions is Lan’s long, flowing hair, cascading down their shoulders in a luxurious display of black or jade green. Occasionally adorned with vibrant flowers, this hairstyle mirrors the untamed spirit coursing through Lan Caihe, symbolizing a connection with nature and freedom from societal constraints.

Lan’s attire further emphasizes their nonconformity, as flowing robes, often mismatched or casually worn, subtly convey a disregard for societal expectations. Another striking element is the mismatched footwear, with a single shoe playfully dangling – a symbolic proclamation of freedom from earthly constraints. In this way, Lan Caihe’s physical form becomes a dynamic representation of artistic expression, resisting rigid norms and inviting a celebration of diversity and fluidity.

Family

Lan Caihe is generally not believed to be a historical figure with a concrete basis in reality. According to traditional accounts, the character is said to have come into existence during the Tang dynasty (618 to 907 CE) and led a nomadic life as a homeless street entertainer, traversing the vast expanse of China while serenading the streets with profound philosophical songs. The details of Lan Caihe’s family history are as elusive as their own existence. Legends surrounding their origin offer glimpses of celestial ties, situating them among the enigmatic Star Spirits, while whispers suggest the possibility of an earthly lineage lost to the annals of time.

One particularly captivating tale weaves a narrative of a celestial stork descending from the heavens, lured by the mesmerizing music that Lan played during their wandering journey. Recognizing Lan’s immortal potential, the celestial stork gracefully bore them aloft, severing their ties to the mortal realm forever. This celestial encounter adds a mystical layer to Lan Caihe’s story, leaving their earthly origins veiled in the mystique of ancient tales.

Other names

Lan Caihe is adorned with various epithets, adding layers to their identity. According to the Hsiu hsiang Pa Hsien tung yu chi, one such epithet is “the Red-footed Great Genius,” also known as Ch’ih-chiao Ta-hsien incarnate. Another designation is the “foot-stomping immortal,” a nod to the musical genre Lan specialized in— “stomping songs.”

At times, Lan Caihe is referred to by the personal name Yang Su. Like a skilled musician crafting intricate melodies, Lan Caihe possesses a repertoire of names, each resonating with a distinct aspect of their complex character. The title “Immortal of the Blue Flower Basket” pays homage to their cherished companion, a basket brimming with vibrant blooms symbolizing beauty, transformation, and the transient nature of life.

“Wanderer of the Clouds” evokes the image of Lan’s unbridled spirit, traversing the celestial expanse, guided by the winds of freedom. Lastly, the epithet “Master of the Jade Castanets” aligns with the rhythmic heartbeat of Lan’s soul, their music enchanting both mortals and immortals alike. These epithets collectively contribute to the rich tapestry of Lan Caihe’s mythological identity, capturing the essence of their diverse attributes and roles within Chinese folklore.

Powers and Abilities

Lan Caihe, adorned with the emblematic basket of flowers, assumes the role of the patron for florists and gardeners, their presence resonating in the realm of nature’s beauty. Additionally, Lan Caihe is celebrated as a wandering musician, and their tales often revolve around the significance of musical instruments in their mythical narrative.

At the heart of Lan’s musical expression is the clapper, sometimes interpreted as castanets, with various types found in China. As an immortal, Lan Caihe commands an array of mystical powers. Their transformative abilities enable them to shapeshift at will, seamlessly navigating both mortal and celestial domains. The celestial magic infused in their music bestows it with the power to heal, transport, and even unveil portals to otherworldly dimensions. Notably, Lan’s seemingly ordinary basket surpasses conventionality, containing an infinite reserve of exotic fruits and mystical herbs, each possessing the potential to bestow longevity or alleviate ailments.

However, Lan’s most potent gift lies in their unconventional wisdom. Through whimsical songs and playful antics, Lan becomes a provocateur challenging societal norms. Their existence becomes a living embodiment of Daoist philosophy, encouraging mortals to embrace the capricious joy of life. Lan Caihe serves as a beckoning guide, urging individuals to seek harmony with nature, embrace spontaneity, and revel in the transient beauty of the present moment. In this way, Lan becomes not just a mythical figure but a timeless symbol of profound wisdom and an advocate for a harmonious existence.

Modern Day Influence

The symbolism of Lan’s basket extends beyond mythology, finding popularity in Chinese New Year decorations as a representation of prosperity and abundance. Lan Caihe’s distinctive flower basket, alongside the symbols of the other Eight Immortals, makes appearances in various contexts, such as adorning a Qing dynasty 19th-century imperial dragon robe.

The androgynous portrayal of Lan Caihe serves as a motif challenging conventional gender norms, echoing contemporary dialogues on gender identity and expression. This fluid representation resonates with modern discussions, sparking contemplation on evolving perspectives. Writers and artists, captivated by the deity’s mysterious and free-spirited essence, find inspiration to delve into themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the pursuit of a higher purpose. Lan Caihe becomes a canvas upon which contemporary creatives explore the complexities of identity and the enduring quest for personal enlightenment.