Chinese Traditional Auspicious Symbol Dictionary

Author: Li Dian
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-03-01
Features: auspicious patterns have appeared as early as the Shang and Zhou dynasties. Throughout the long history of the Qin and Han emperors, the Tang and Song emperors, they evolved to reach their peak during the Ming and Qing dynasties. They were widespread across all social strata and all aspects of life. Over the long course of development, auspicious patterns gradually accumulated several important themes, which is also an inevitable result closely related to the lifestyle and psychological expectations of the Chinese people. This book not only provides a concise textual summary of the cultural connotations and symbolic meanings of auspicious patterns but also specially categorizes them into more than ten types based on the occasions they were used in, including auspicious patterns for welcoming the new year, praying for children, pursuing success, harmonious marriage, family harmony, celebrating birthdays, seeking blessings, praying for wealth, protecting the home, daily auspicious patterns, and traditional auspicious symbols. Since many auspicious patterns have multiple functions, these categories may not be entirely accurate, but they can roughly reflect the usage of auspicious patterns in traditional Chinese society. Readers can quickly understand the psychological tendencies of the Chinese people in a particular context and a side of their lives by looking at the pictures. After all, a peaceful and happy life with everything going well is a common hope.