Asian Gallery (Toyokan) Room 8
January 2, 2007 (Tue) - January 28, 2007 (Sun)
This New Year's display of Chinese paintings features works with auspicious symbols that are suitable for this time of year.
Pine trees and bamboo remain green even in severe cold weather, and fragrant plum blossoms bloom earlier than any other flower even in a harsh environment. In China, they were called Three Friends of Winter, likened to people who can control themselves with unwavering will and generous mind in a harsh environment. They were highly regarded by educated men as symbols of their ideal way of life. Known as the Four Noble Plants, bamboo and plum trees were also grouped with orchids and chrysanthemums, which signified a secluded life free from secularity.
They were also associated with various worldly wishes of the Chinese; pine trees with longevity, bamboo with peace and many prosperous descendents, and the plum tree with easy childbirth and being blessed with children. Paintings with these motifs have been popular among the Chinese people as auspicious pictures.
Chinese flower and bird paintings may seem to simply depict nature, but their motifs have various meanings.
Grapes, gourds, and pomegranates symbolize many prosperous descendents.
Peaches, narcissus, and bamboo with rocks refer to longevity.
Lotuses, water birds, and fish mean wealth.
Peonies signify richness and nobleness.
Magpies are a symbol of good events.
Phoenix means a peaceful world.
Bats mean happiness.