Chinese Motifs of Good Fortune

Chinese Motifs of Good Fortune
Author: Zhu Wen
Publisher: Shanghai Press
Total Pages: 0
Release: 2011-03-10
Genre: Social Science
ISBN: 9781602201194

This fascinating and readable book is an exploration of Chinese culture as it appears in art. Chinese porcelains decorated with peaches and ats…textiles boldly printed with a phoenix and peony pattern…furniture carved with dragons amid the coulds…These popular patterns are beautiful and eye-catching—but what do these art symbols mean? Each expresses a wish for fortune, whether that represents prosperity, health, luck or happiness. In China, decorating with auspicious patterns dates back thousands of years, and remains popular today. It has strong ties with tradition, and provides insight into Chinese philosophies about nature, religion, morality and government. Symbols invoking fortune appear in a wide range of media, from porcelains to furniture to architectural decoration, among many others. This Chinese art book examines traditional auspicious patterns featuring animals, plants, figures, objects and symbols, as well as those that combine motifs from different categories. You will discover how to decode this intricate world of Chinese symbolism by exploring the history, meaning and use of many common patterns. In fact, learning this "visual language" will provide a new level of appreciation not only for China's remarkable decorative arts but also its profound traditional culture.

Interior Textiles

Interior Textiles
Author: Karla J. Nielson
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
Total Pages: 514
Release: 2007-07-10
Genre: Architecture
ISBN: 0471606405

When it comes to both the technical and aesthetic considerations of using textiles in interior design, this book gives working professionals what they need to know. You'll receive expert guidance to the process of textile specifications, selection, installation and maintenance, as well as an understanding of the properties of fabric types and a historical context of styles. Sustainable design and code issues are also considered. More than 500 illustrations and photographs elucidate key ideas. This survey of textiles for interior design is divided into three main parts: Fabrics: The interior design textile industry and marketplace. A study of fibers, yarns, constructions, and finishes. Codes and "green" design. Applications: Textile specifications and coordination of upholstery and wall coverings, window treatments, linens and accessories, and rugs and carpeting. Period Style: Oriental styles, Renaissance and Formal styles, Medieval, Colonial, Country and Provence styles, Regional and Ethnic styles, and Modern styles. Order your copy today!

Chinese Art

Chinese Art
Author: Patricia Bjaaland Welch
Publisher: Tuttle Publishing
Total Pages: 300
Release: 2013-02-19
Genre: Art
ISBN: 1462906893

With over 630 striking color photos and illustrations, this Chinese art guide focuses on the rich tapestry of symbolism which makes up the basis of traditional Chinese art. Chinese Art: A Guide to Motifs and Visual Imagery includes detailed commentary and historical background information for the images that continuously reappear in the arts of China, including specific plants and animals, religious beings, mortals and inanimate objects. The book thoroughly illuminates the origins, common usages and diverse applications of popular Chinese symbols in a tone that is both engaging and authoritative. Chinese Art: A Guide to Motifs and Visual Imagery is an essential reference for collectors, museum-goers, guides, students and anyone else with a serious interest in the culture and history of China.

Five-Fold Happiness

Five-Fold Happiness
Author: Vivien Sung
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Total Pages: 253
Release: 2014-10-07
Genre: Art
ISBN: 1452139393

In engaging text and beautiful illustration, this volume explores the five-fold symbols of happiness: luck, prosperity, longevity, happiness, and wealth. Surround yourself with lucky objects, the Chinese believe, and good fortune will come to you. In Five-Fold Happiness, Vivien Sung takes readers on a delightful and enlightening journey through this age-old concept. Drenched in color and lavishly illustrated from ancient and modern sources, it interweaves both Chinese and English text. Peaches, the number eight, the imperial color of gold, a cat with one paw beckoning, or the dragon dance—here are some of the familiar images now revealed in their rich significance. Whether readers choose to embrace these symbols in their everyday lives or simply enjoy them on these glorious pages, Five-Fold Happiness is altogether auspicious.

Lillian Too's Practical Feng Shui Symbols of Good Fortune

Lillian Too's Practical Feng Shui Symbols of Good Fortune
Author: Lillian Too
Publisher: HarperElement
Total Pages: 60
Release: 2000
Genre: Architecture
ISBN: 9781862047952

This comprehensive and practical handbook describes the origins and meanings of the Feng Shui symbols of good fortune. It also contains helpful advice and tips on how to use the following symbols to bring luck and prosperity into many aspects of your life.

400 Chinese Motifs

400 Chinese Motifs
Author: Graham Leslie McCallum
Publisher: B T Batsford Limited
Total Pages: 400
Release: 2010
Genre: Art
ISBN: 9781906388638

A handy motif book with 400 Chinese-style motifs, which is one of the most popular styles for all kinds of creative work. The motifs cover Chinese animals, from pandas to dragons, Chinese flowers, with lotus leaves and jasmine and Asian trees, plus Chinese patterns that range from the simple to the elaborately exotic. The stunning hand-drawn motifs - which are all included on the accompanying CD - are ideal for all those working creatively. Whether you are a quilter, embroiderer, woodworker, designer or general crafter, there is a motif for you here. Stunning hand-drawn motifs for all crafters and all designers An accompanying CD to maximize your use of the images Includes motifs of trees, flowers, animals, birds and patterns

Outlines of Chinese Symbolism and Art Motives

Outlines of Chinese Symbolism and Art Motives
Author: Charles Alfred Speed Williams
Publisher: Courier Corporation
Total Pages: 520
Release: 1976-01-01
Genre: Social Science
ISBN: 9780486233727

Describes historical, legendary, and supernatural persons, animals, and objects that recur as symbols in Oriental art and literature

Dictionary of Chinese Symbols

Dictionary of Chinese Symbols
Author: Wolfram Eberhard
Publisher: Routledge
Total Pages: 336
Release: 2006-12-05
Genre: Social Science
ISBN: 1134988648

This unique and authoritative guide describes more than 400 important Chinese symbols, explaining their esoteric meanings and connections. Their use and development in Chinese literature and in Chinese customs and attitudes to life are traced lucidly and precisely. `An ideal reference book to help one learn and explore further, while simultaneously giving greater insight into many other aspects of Chinese life ... the most authoritative guide to Chinese symbolism available to the general reader today ... a well-researched, informative and entertaining guide to the treasure trove of Chinese symbols.' - South China Morning Post

The Fortune Cookie Chronicles

The Fortune Cookie Chronicles
Author: Jennifer B. Lee
Publisher: Twelve
Total Pages: 236
Release: 2008-03-03
Genre: Social Science
ISBN: 0446511706

If you think McDonald's is the most ubiquitous restaurant experience in America, consider that there are more Chinese restaurants in America than McDonalds, Burger Kings, and Wendys combined. New York Times reporter and Chinese-American (or American-born Chinese). In her search, Jennifer 8 Lee traces the history of Chinese-American experience through the lens of the food. In a compelling blend of sociology and history, Jenny Lee exposes the indentured servitude Chinese restaurants expect from illegal immigrant chefs, investigates the relationship between Jews and Chinese food, and weaves a personal narrative about her own relationship with Chinese food. The Fortune Cookie Chronicles speaks to the immigrant experience as a whole, and the way it has shaped our country.