Five-Fold Happiness: Chinese Concepts of Luck, Prosperity, Longevity, Happiness, and Wealth

by Vivien Sung

Surround yourself with lucky objects, the Chinese believe, and good fortune will come to you. In word and image, this exquisite volume-a delight to hold in the hand-explores the bounteous meanings of the five-fold symbols of luck, prosperity, longevity, happiness, and wealth. Drenched in color and lavishly illustrated from ancient and modern sources, Five-Fold Happiness 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.

Genres: Nonfiction, China, Asia

256 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 2002

Reviews

[gowri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really interesting to think about stuff I've seen my mother do and realize why that is

[Shumei · Rating 3 out of 5]

Luck, prosperity, longevity, double happiness and wealth. These are the five most sought after values in Chinese culture - so says the introduction to this book. A nice little picture book that you can dip into time and again.

[Nina I · Rating 4 out of 5]

Learning about the symbolic beliefs that many chinese generations is very interesting to me. I loved learning about new years and marriage gifts. Next time we go to chinatown I'll be able to understand a little more about goodluck!

[Adriana · Rating 3 out of 5]

Super approachable book for outsiders trying to get to know Chinese culture. The symbols are explained in a concise way, plus, the author adds some legends to understand why some symbols and gods are considered lucky. The illustrations and pictures are beautiful :)

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting book about the symbolism in Asia, and particularly in Chinese culture.

[Peacegal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ever wonder about all of the symbols and writing you see decorating your local Chinese restaurant? Read this quick, informative volume and be enlightened.

[Philia · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good insights into the meaning and legends behind the Chinese auspicious objects. The best part is that it's English & Chinese bilingual.

[Michaela · Rating 3 out of 5]

Compact narrative of various symbols commonly used in Chinese objects.