Ladies from Asian Myth #1: Chang E (Moon Goddess)

Chang E, the Moon Goddess

colored pencil, metallic pencil, marker, prismacolor blender

© 2012 by A. Dameron 

 

Chang E is also known as the Moon Goddess in Chinese mythology. She became immortal only by stealing the Pill of Immortality from her husband, Hou Yi. The Queen Mother of the West had rewarded Hou Yi for his great service to Mankind by granting him the Pill of Immortality. Chang E took it instead and flew to the moon. She was banished to the Winter Palace on the moon, and the Pill of Immortality was transformed into a jade hare, which became her only companion.

Chang E's festival is held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, during the Autumn.