Shou – Longevity

Description of Shou - Longevity

The symbol of Shou Longevity represents the wish for a long life. In Chinese art, these three concepts are visually presented as three star gods bearing the same names of Fu, Lu, and Shou. The Shou symbol is usually found on objects such as textiles, furniture, ceramics and jewelry.The three symbols, and the most important concepts in Chinese culture are the symbols of Fu, Lu and Shou. Each of these as individual symbols represent important aspects of life, such as prosperity, luck and longevity. Combined, these three forces are what guide life and were considered important symbols – and still are, in Chinese culture.

Style Variations

Bold – Light – Outlined – Colorable
Each variation is included in the file package.

Chinese main description

Chinese Symbols

Chinese culture is dominated by its symbols. From the way the language itself is written to the connections with nature and feng shui, Chinese culture is rich in symbolism. Most of the symbols are its characters, such as the fu, lou, and shou, which are all connected to luck, wealth, and prosperity. Other symbols such as the Laughing Buddha and the Lucky Cat are evolutions of culture that have also come to represent good luck and good fortune. Chinese mythology itself is rich in symbols, especially its dragons. Collectively, the dragons present in the lore are symbols of potent and auspicious powers. This is especially reflected in the control the dragons wield over the elements. Responsible for water, rainfall, typhoons, and floods, the dragons exert great control over the land and the people. This is also why the dragons that Chinese mythology is founded on have become universal symbols of power and strength across the region and globally as well. Within Chinese language and culture, there are many symbols for good luck, wealth, and longevity but particularly luck. These symbols are used most often during weddings and important occasions such as Chinese New Year. The symbols in Chinese culture act as a way to invite good fortune and luck in and to keep bad spirits away. The colors used for the symbols also have meaning. For example, red is considered a lucky color (it is also the national color of China) and it represents wealth, status and power - which is why it is used so often in many of these symbols, to invite these same concepts into everyday life as well.