A fascinating large wooden plaque known as qian. The qian is often seen in Daoist temples in the form of a collection of bamboo sticks placed in a bamboo cup and devotees will shake the cup to receive their fortune or oracle from the gods. The front of the panel contains an inscription stating this qian is of the formal troop of an army emanating their highest powers (or divine powers). the back of the piece also has an inscription which most of it is lost. Below the inscription are two Daoist spells to invoke the blessing for the qian. Age: 19th-20th century. Size: Height 18.5" Length 2.15" Width 0.5"