Patterns of China

Today we continue our journey through patterns with a look at the patterns of China!

Many of the elements in Chinese patterns derive from Chinese mythology and religion. The fierce dragon is, perhaps, the most well known element of Chinese art. It represents male power and yang energy (part of Taoist religion based finding balance within yourself and the world between two main elements - ying and yang). The bottom most left pattern shows two other common Chinese symbols - the phoenix (symbolizing either yang/female or good fortune) and the cloud (symbolizing the celestial realm). Flowers, particularly the six-point flower are also prevalent in Chinese patterns. The middle right pattern, featuring figures and a pagoda, is known as a willow pattern. Though not strictly Chinese,  the willow pattern is a popular European interpretation of early Chinese textile patterns and embodies typically Chinese patterns in its use of color and design.