Vase Shape
Posted in Art Pottery on 03/14/2010 08:39 am by adminWhat do the different forms of Chinese jade carvings mean?
I know that the shapes hand-carved jade stand of Chinese for different things. The animals of the Chinese zodiac are representing themselves, for example. But there are other forms ... butterfly vase etc., and was told that each had a meaning. I searched everywhere I can think of looking online, without answers. Anyone have any ideas? Thank you!
Yes, almost everything is symbolic of something in Chinese culture! It would take a thick book to even begin to scratch the surface of Chinese symbolism & Grounds! I've listed some common symbols and their general meaning: Butterfly - Emblem of happiness, a symbol of summer Bat - Sounds like the kind of happiness Fu (2). Emblem of happiness and longevity. The design of 5 bats is a pictorial rebus for "5 Blessings" namely old age, wealth, health, love of virtue and natural death (!). Often symbols of bats are so decorative that they appear butterfly. Flowers - Some flowers represent different times of the year. For example, Peony Spring, Lotus: Summer Chrysanthemums: Autumn and Plum Blossom: Winter. Vase - The gift of a vase symbolizes "peace" as the sound of the ideogram mud is similar to the character of peace. Bamboo - Commonly called "friend of China". It is a symbol of longevity because it is durable and evergreen and blooms all winter. There is no information online, I fear. Not that I know anyway. However, there are books you can rfer thereon. A reference book standard for many students from China / Chinese culture is, "Chinese Art Symbolism & Motifss" written by CAS Williams. ISBN 0-8048-1586-0. It explains essential cultural symbols and contains interesting information on Chinese beliefs, customs, arts and crafts, food, medicine etc. I own it book and I think you find it useful. Hope that helps!