Cloth Art? Chinese deities?

These were obtained in the Philippines 1946/47. Unknown when they were actually made, but my BIL, I believe, had them framed (or re-framed) in Manila. Two of the nine Chinese deities? I've had a very hard time finding more information. They are made with cloth, painted faces, and real human hair. It does not matter what they actually look like, but the staff they are carrying is what identifies them, provides their assigned name. Related to astrology? That's what I have so far, and will really appreciate any further assistance, including welcome corrections. Is this called "cloth art?" or is their a better name. Any clue as to age?

 

Are they painted / printed on cloth with the extras applied? Interesting, in any case! I hope somebody can help with some information.

 

Wow. No idea. Maybe it's yak hair and not human???

 

2 of the 8 Immortals. I'm not sure of the 1st one. He may be the Immortal, Lu Dong-Pin/LuDunbin?

"Lu Dong-Pin, is a Taoist scholar with a magic sword used to slay demons and evil spirits. He’s also shown with a fly-whisker that cures illnesses. This immortal symbolizes scholastic luck and protection."

The 2nd one is the Immortal Zhang Guo-lao/Chang Kuo-Lao/Zhang Guolao. He is carrying a "fish drum, which is a tube-shaped bamboo drum with two iron rods or mallets [hooks] that he carries with him." Most times he is portrayed riding a mule:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zhang_Guolao#Depiction_in_art_and_culture

"Chang Kuo-Lao, is represented as an ‘Old’ man with mystic powers who carries the bamboo tube and riding a mule that could carry him a thousand miles a day. He’s a symbol of wisdom and used to help childless couples conceive."

http://www.natures-energies.com/metaphysics/the-eight-immortals-and-their-individual-meanings

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eight_Immortals

--- Susan

 

Thanks for the comments/questions. It's all cloth, even the background dark brown piece. The face is a cut out, probably backed up on something solid to give it a third dimension, then painted. Everything else is pieces of cloth cut and folded. The coloring was on the cloths, not added. There is a name for this technique and not sure if it's simply "cloth art." One antique dealer I know said the beards are made from human hair. BTW, these are 14 inches by 6 3/4. Is there another category on this site that might fit better?

 

WOW!!! As I'm answering a few questions a terrific lady comes along and supplies what I believe is everything I was hoping for. Thank you immensely, Susan. I shall spend the next hour or so with the links you supplied. Right category and just the right lady!!!!!!!!! My lucky day. Thank you again.

 

As said, I appreciate corrections. Eight deities, gods, immortals, not nine. Susan, I agree on both. Lu Dong-Pin is the closest to the image of what he is carrying, though he can also be depicted carrying a fan.I'll spend more time on him. Chang Kuo-Lao is spot on. Mainly stopping back to let you know Wikepedia is conducting a donation day. They state that if everyone visiting today donates $3 they would reach their goal immediately. If you use them as much as I do you might want to pay a visit now. BBL

 

I believe the term used most often is "textile arts." Sometimes "fabric art" is used, too.

Glad you found the info you needed. They look like really nicely-made pieces.