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During a trip to the National Palace Museum, our tour guide spoke in-depth about the way that Chinese artifacts contain a multitude of symbolic animals, creatures, and meanings. This could be because of a surface-level connection, or because of the way certain Chinese characters sound similar. Below are a few unique examples of this.
"Hundred Deer" Vase
"Hundred Deer" Vase
This vase has numerous hidden deer. In Chinese symbolism, the deer represents good fortune, because of a connection with the Chinese character. This would be given as a gift to bring someone lots of money!
Marble Baby Pillows
Marble Baby Pillows
These pillows (yes, pillows!) are carved in the shape of a baby. This symbol is pretty on the nose-- it represents fertility.
Classroom Connection
Classroom Connection
The global connection can be made in the classroom by studying the art of other countries. What better way to understand symbolism than to demonstrate its impact on cultures around the world?
In this lesson, students will not only predict what symbols an artwork uses, as well as their meaning, but also develop their own. What symbols exist in American artwork and culture? How do symbols develop our identity?
[This lesson will be developed in the following school year.]
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