This motif was created in the style of ‘Gong Bi Zhong Cai Hua’ – the Chinese for ‘fine drawing’. The most popular subjects are flowers and bird motifs. This style is characterised by its vivid and luxurious colours which is why it was used by painters working for the Chinese court.
The name of the flowers shown here is ‘Early Lilac’. In Chinese, the name means ‘heavenly flower’. It is the most popular Chinese flower with a history that goes back more than 1000 years. Found in many Chinese gardens, ‘Early Lilac’ comes into flower in spring. It has large blossoms that exude a unique, intense perfume. Giving this flower to someone as a gift means wishing the recipient a wonderful future. The lilac colour of the blossoms symbolises romance but also hope for a good future.
The blossoms shown here have five leaves. They are thought to bring luck – just like the four-leaved clover in Western culture.