Pine Trees, Cranes, and Deer - What Do They Symbolize? (Qianlong)

 

The Qing dynasty, particularly the Qianlong era (1735-1796), was a period of great cultural and artistic development in China. During this time, certain symbols and motifs gained significant importance, including the deer, crane, and pine trees. These symbols held deep cultural and philosophical significance and were often represented in various art forms, reflecting the values and beliefs of the era. 1) Longevity and Resilience: The Enduring Pine The pine tree was a beloved symbol in Chinese art for millennia, and its significance continued during the Qing dynasty. Pines are evergreen, maintaining their vibrant green needles throughout the harsh winter. This characteristic led them to represent longevity and enduring strength. In harsh landscapes, pines were often the only trees to thrive, symbolizing resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. During the Qianlong era (1736-1796), the pine tree became even more prominent as an emblem of imperial power and longevity. The Qianlong Emperor himself lived to the ripe old age of 89, further solidifying the association between pines and a long life. Pine trees were depicted in various art forms, including paintings, ceramics, and textiles, and were often incorporated into imperial gardens. 2) Happiness and Prosperity: The Graceful Deer The deer was another auspicious symbol in Qing dynasty art, particularly during the Qianlong era. The Chinese character for deer, "lu" (鹿), is a homophone for the word "emolument" or "salary" (禄) in Chinese. This homophony created a visual pun, associating deer with prosperity and abundance. Additionally, deer were seen as gentle creatures, symbolizing harmony and happiness. In Qing dynasty art, deer were often depicted in peaceful scenes, frolicking in landscapes or grazing on meadows. They might be shown in pairs, signifying marital bliss and double the good fortune. During the Qianlong era, deer became associated with the emperor himself. Deer horns were used to craft imperial ornaments, and deer motifs adorned imperial robes and palaces. 3) Immortality and Elegance: The Mythical Crane Cranes were revered creatures in Chinese mythology, believed to possess otherworldly qualities. They were said to mate for life and live for a thousand years, making them potent symbols of longevity and marital fidelity. Cranes were also associated with the heavens and immortality, as they were believed to fly between the earthly realm and the celestial plane. In Qing dynasty art, cranes were often depicted in paintings and on decorative objects alongside other symbols of longevity, such as pines and tortoises. During the Qianlong era, the crane's association with immortality made it a fitting symbol for the emperor, who was seen as a semi-divine figure. Cranes were incorporated into imperial artwork, textiles, and even court rituals.

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