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Abstract

SYMBOLIC REPRESENTATIONS IN CHINESE TEMPLES

  By Ornsiri Panin 

        To give blessings is a common practice among the people of the Asian cultures. This wishing to one's health wealth and prosperity on the various occasions can be viewed in parallel with the Chinese “Hok, Lok, Siew” symbolisms.

        Since verbal blessings can be easily forgotten. The Chinese therefore commonly prefer to present their blessings in the form of symbolic objects. These objects which are generally ornamental, can also be found depicted in the decorations of the floors, walls, ceilings and roofs of the Chinese houses, shrines, and temples. They may be represented in wood, plaster, metal, fabric or other materials used in producing handcrafted works.

        From the Chinese temples in Bangkok, it can be seen that the symbolisms used are closely related to nature. Animals and plants such as bats, dragons, bamboos, and pine trees, are used to represent longetivity, whilst pomegranate fruits symbolize wealth and prosperity. With such rich meanings, these symbolic representations are therefore particulary interesting to study in terms of the relationship between architectural ornamentation and the Chinese customs.