Pixiu
Overview
A creature of the same family as the qilin but with a different reputation: the pixiu is the figure most commonly placed at doorways and worn as a carved ornament for its association with keeping wealth in.
Meaning
The pixiu is a winged composite beast associated in popular tradition with attracting and holding wealth.
Traditional Interpretation
The traditional explanation turns on anatomy — the pixiu is said to have no anus, so what it takes in does not leave. That is the basis of its use as a wealth emblem.
Related Concepts
FAQ
What does pixiu symbolize in Chinese tradition?
The pixiu is a winged composite beast associated in popular tradition with attracting and holding wealth. A creature of the same family as the qilin but with a different reputation: the pixiu is the figure most commonly placed at doorways and worn as a carved ornament for its association with keeping wealth in.
Where does the pixiu appear in Chinese art and custom?
Its use is documented across several registers at once. The pixiu is a winged composite beast associated in popular tradition with attracting and holding wealth. The gender distinction in the traditional pairing — the male with one horn, the female with two — is what determines how a pair is placed, and it is the detail most often got wrong in shops.
How is pixiu read in Chinese tradition?
The traditional explanation turns on anatomy — the pixiu is said to have no anus, so what it takes in does not leave. That is the basis of its use as a wealth emblem. It is grouped under Metal (金) in the five-element system.
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