Traditional Chinese Art and Craft MotifsThe large majority of craft motifs, that is the decorations used in Chinese art and craft can be categorized as belonging to either of the following several categories:
Many objects and images depicted in Chinese arts and crafts, including paintings, ceramics, carvings, embroidery, etc. represent a symbolism that is inherent to and existing in all crafts of ancient China. Even buildings and interiors of houses were decorated with these motifs. Some objects symbolize certain desirable concrete, real or non-touchable qualities which are considered desirable in Chinese culture. Others have a direct or indirect association with a certain symbolism due to either the meaning or the sound (pronunciation) of these objects name in the Chinese language, which is associated with another positive meaning or desirable effect. Not that such symbolism is limited to positive or desired things, actually this symbolism penetrates the whole life. The negative associations or dark aspect of this is nowadays often related to what we would call superstition. Usually, it is not the subject of decorative arts.
See also Human motifs on Chinese pottery and porcelain. decoration. Chinese Symbolism in Art and Craft
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