A finely detailed and realistically carved teak wood statue of a warrior tightly gripping his characteristic halberd riding on a fierce dragon. Undoubtedly this depiction is commonly recognized as the most venerated warrior spirit in China and many Asian cultures: Guan Yu was a general of the posterior of Han dynasty (Three Kingdoms, 220-265 A.D.). He was executed at the age of 58; but later ennobled to the status of Duke, raised to the rank of prince in 1128, and finally awarded the title of emperor, saint or God in 1598. He is one of the most popular of Chinese divinities worshipped in every home by Taoist or Buddhist alike, and countless temples were dedicated to him. Due to his legacy of loyalty and dignity, Guan Yu is the patron saint for members on both side of the law. He is also considered as the God of Wealth, and a tutelary deity of business in Chinese culture. Furthermore, Guan Yu is frequently depicted reading the Book of Spring and Autumn (History Annual of Zhou dynasty, 770-475 B.C.); thus the God of War is also revered as the God of Literature.