"In China people believe they can attract good fortune and avert misfortune by speaking lucky words and surrounding themselves with lucky objects. Auspicious Chinese symbols are found in art on scrolls and other paintings, on craftwork, in architecture, on household objects, etc. There are symbols to attract prosperity, longevity, good luck and happiness. Pine trees and bamboo, for example, are symbols of longevity and resilience in Chinese culture as they grow well all year round. Chinese flower symbols represent the natural nectar that brings growth, prosperity and a fresh start in life. The peony is the symbol of prosperity and nobility; the chrysanthemum signifies a life of ease as well as longevity; the orchid is an emblem of spring and of fertility and a symbol of perfection and abundance; and the lotus signifies purity, perfection and enlightenment—the ultimate goal in life. The lily stands for innocence and the carnation is a symbol of marriage. Plum blossom is a symbol of winter and of strength of personality whilst peach blossom is believed to bring good luck. Apple blossom represents beauty and cherry blossom is a symbol of female beauty, love, power and strength.
Animal symbols are also considered auspicious in Chinese culture. For example, the butterfly signifies love and the crab prosperity. Horses are symbols of endurance and loyalty whilst goldfish are thought to bring wealth and harmony because the symbol means an abundance of gold. The rooster is thought to ward off evil spirits and the tiger is the emblem of dignity and courage and is also a symbol of protection. The cat brings good luck and keeps evil spirits at bay whilst the crane represents longevity, wisdom and nobility."
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