In Chinese culture, there is a traditional belief that people can attract good fortune and avert misfortune by speaking "lucky" words and surrounding themselves with "lucky" symbols and objects. So ingrained is this believe that Chinese symbols are often represented on gift items, from household objects and jewelry to works of art. The language of Chinese symbols and meanings extends to shapes, colors, deities, animals, plants and fruits, with symbolism represented in characters, words and objects. The most popular types of good fortune symbols are those that represent luck, prosperity, longevity, happiness and wealth.
Lucky Pictures and Patterns
Chinese symbol gifts such as wall art and wall décor, known as ji xiang tu an, are intended to bring good luck into a home while warding off misfortune. Not only are written Chinese symbols used in these kinds of works, but elements within a picture are considered symbolic as well. For example, pine trees in a Chinese painting represent longevity. Chinese master artists are known for incorporating numerous recognizable symbols as well as "symbols of good meaning" into their works.
Fish
A picture of a fish ("li"), a fish sculpture or a live fish are all considered Chinese symbols for abundance and persistence in an endeavor. Chinese legend tells a story of Chinese carp swimming up river to spawn, with those able to "leap the waterfall at the dragon's gate" being transformed into dragons. The modern translation of the symbol is that hard work and dedication pays off.
Bamboo
A gift of bamboo ("zhu") is a gift of good fortune that can also ward off evil spirits. The bamboo is very resilient throughout the four seasons and is symbolic to the Chinese for courage in the face of hardship. It is also a symbol of a noble and strong character. Gifts of bamboo can be made in the form of furniture, garden accessories, clothing, jewelry and even health and beauty products.
Chinese Scepter
A short sword carried by Chinese emperors and nobility in ancient times, the Chinese scepter is called "ru yi," which means, "everything as you wish." When given as a gift, the ru yi conveys wishes of good fortune and prosperity. While used long ago as weapons, today's gifts of Chinese scepters are elegant and decorative in nature and are crafted from gold, silver, jade, bone, ceramic and wood. Combining a gift of a scepter with the gift of a vase conveys the symbolic meaning, "may you have peace and everything you wish."
