What Does Mandarin Duck Symbolize? Discover the Meaning and Significance

The Mandarin duck is a stunning and majestic creature that symbolizes many things in various cultures. Its vibrant and colorful feathers make it one of the most attractive birds in the world. Chinese culture considers the Mandarin duck as a symbol of love, fidelity, and commitment. The duck’s elegant presence in Chinese mythology goes back to ancient times.

Many people worldwide are drawn to the Mandarin duck’s vibrant colors and innate behaviors. In Japan, Mandarin ducks are also seen as lucky. The Japanese believe that these ducks bring good fortune and happiness to people’s lives. Apart from their picturesque beauty, Mandarin ducks also represent loyalty and fidelity in love. These ducks are known to form monogamous bonds that last a lifetime, and that resonates well with the values of long-lasting relationships and marriage.

Furthermore, the Mandarin duck is a symbol of grace and dignity. They are known to glide smoothly over the water’s surface while maintaining their poise. The Mandarin duck’s unwavering elegance reminds us of the importance of grace, kindness and respect for oneself and others. In summary, Mandarin ducks resonate with different people for different reasons. They are powerful symbols of love, loyalty, commitment, and elegance that many people look up to as a source of positive inspiration.

The Symbolism of Mandarin Ducks in Chinese Culture

Mandarin ducks are known for their colorful and stunning appearance that effortlessly captures attention with their patchwork of intricate patterns of color, making them a popular ornamental bird that is highly symbolic in Chinese culture. As a species native to China, they have been a significant part of Chinese cultural heritage for thousands of years and are celebrated for their unique role in Chinese mythology and folklore. The symbolism of mandarin ducks is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and is associated with love, fidelity, and romance, making them a popular icon in Chinese art and literature.

The Meaning of Mandarin Ducks in Chinese Culture

  • Love and Marriage: Mandarin ducks are considered a symbol of love and marriage in Chinese culture. They are believed to form lifelong bonds and remain loyal to their partner throughout their lives. Hence, they are a popular emblem in weddings, where they represent the sanctity of marriage and the bond between two people.
  • Good Luck: Mandarin ducks are also considered a symbol of good luck and fortune, making them a popular object in Feng Shui. In Chinese mythology, they are believed to be a talisman that can bring happiness, longevity, and prosperity to the household.
  • Harmony: Mandarin ducks represent harmony and peace in relationships. They are believed to complement each other and promote a harmonious relationship between couples. In Feng Shui, it is considered auspicious to have a pair of mandarin ducks facing each other, as it signifies a peaceful and harmonious relationship.

Mandarin Ducks in Chinese Art and Literature

Mandarin ducks have been a popular subject in Chinese art and literature for centuries. They are often depicted in Chinese paintings, poems, and folk songs, symbolizing love, romance, and fidelity. Mandarin ducks also feature prominently in Chinese opera, where they are believed to bring good luck and a harmonious relationship to the performers.

In Chinese art, mandarin ducks are often depicted swimming together or playing in pairs, symbolizing the close bond between two people. Their bright colors and intricate patterns also make them popular in Chinese embroidery, where they are used to decorate clothing and household items.

The Significance of Colors in Mandarin Ducks

Color Meaning
Green Harmony and balance
Red Love, romance, and passion
Yellow Wealth and prosperity
Blue Serenity, peace, and tranquility

The colors of mandarin ducks are also significant in Chinese culture. Each color represents different meanings and is believed to bring a particular kind of energy to the home or household. For example, a pair of green mandarin ducks is believed to bring harmony and balance to the relationship, while a pair of red ducks signifies love, romance, and passion.

The legend of the Mandarin Duck and its significance

The Mandarin duck is a symbol of love, fidelity, and devotion in traditional Chinese culture. The bird’s striking and vibrant appearance, combined with its remarkable mating rituals, has contributed to the legend and myth that surrounds it. According to the legend, mandarin ducks are believed to have the power to reunite separated lovers, and their presence is considered auspicious for those seeking romance and lasting love.

Here are some of the most significant aspects of the Mandarin duck’s symbolism:

  • Love and devotion: The Mandarin duck is regarded as a symbol of love and devotion in traditional Chinese culture. It is believed that the birds mate for life and stay loyal to each other until the end of their lives. In the Chinese language, the word for Mandarin duck is “yuan-yang,” which is also a term used to depict the concept of a perfect match, signifying the ideal companionship between two partners.
  • Reunion and romance: The Mandarin duck is often associated with the reunion and romance of separated lovers. In Chinese mythology, mandarin ducks were believed to have the power to rekindle lost love or bring two people back together, even if they had been separated by distance or other obstacles. The presence of mandarin ducks is considered auspicious for those seeking true love, lasting relationships, and a happy marriage.
  • Grace and beauty: The Mandarin duck’s striking appearance is another factor that contributes to its symbolism. Its beautiful and vibrant plumage, with its intricate patterns and color combinations, is admired for its grace and beauty. Mandarin ducks are often depicted in Chinese art and literature as a symbol of elegance, grace, and refinement.

Overall, the Mandarin duck carries a rich symbolism that emphasizes love, devotion, and the beauty of companionship. Its significance continues to inspire artists, writers, and lovers alike, making it a treasured symbol of Chinese culture and tradition.

The mating rituals of the Mandarin duck

The Mandarin duck’s mating rituals have also contributed to its symbolism. The birds are known for their elaborate courtship displays, where the male will swim around the female in circles, bobbing his head and making various calls and vocalizations to attract her attention. If the female is interested, she will respond by shaking her head and performing a series of movements that signal her willingness to mate. The male will then follow her closely and protect her from other males while they mate and raise their young.

These elaborate courtship displays have been observed in the wild and have contributed to the Mandarin duck’s reputation as a symbol of love and devotion. The birds’ willingness to commit to their partners for life, combined with their elaborate mating rituals, has made them a treasured symbol of traditional Chinese culture and a source of inspiration for artists, writers, and lovers around the world.

The Mandarin duck in traditional Chinese art and culture

The Mandarin duck has been a popular subject in traditional Chinese art and culture for centuries. The birds’ vibrant plumage, elegant form, and intricate mating rituals have made them a symbol of love, happiness, and beauty. They are frequently depicted in Chinese art, literature, and music, with each portrayal emphasizing their unique characteristics and symbolic significance.

Art form Description
Painting The Mandarin duck is a popular subject in Chinese painting, often featured in landscape scenes or depicted in isolation. The birds’ colorful plumage and graceful form lend themselves well to the traditional style of ink and brush painting, with each brushstroke carefully placed to capture their beauty and elegance.
Poetry The Mandarin duck has also been a popular subject in Chinese poetry, where it is often used as a metaphor for love, devotion, and the beauty of nature. Poets have written countless poems about the birds, their mating rituals, and their symbolic significance, each one celebrating their uniqueness and the power of love.
Music The Mandarin duck has even been a popular subject in traditional Chinese music, with songs and melodies dedicated to the beauty and elegance of these birds. Some songs celebrate the birds’ mating rituals, while others focus on their symbolic significance as a symbol of lasting love and devotion.

Overall, the Mandarin duck’s rich symbolism has made it a treasured subject in traditional Chinese art and culture. Its significance continues to inspire artists and writers around the world, making it a beloved symbol of love and devotion that transcends cultural boundaries.

Mandarin Ducks as a Symbol of Love and Fidelity

In Chinese culture, mandarin ducks are often associated with love and fidelity. The reason behind this symbolism is rooted in several historical and mythological beliefs that have been passed down through generations.

  • Mandarin ducks mate for life
  • Their behavior when courting and mating is regarded as a model for romantic behavior
  • Their physical features are often used to represent masculine and feminine beauty, making them the perfect embodiment of yin and yang – the balance of opposites that is at the core of Chinese philosophy.

These beliefs have led mandarin ducks to become an important symbol in Chinese art, literature, and folklore. They are often depicted in paintings, carvings, and other art forms as a representation of love and fidelity. Stories and legends have also been created around them, further cementing their importance as a cultural symbol.

Symbolism Meaning
Mating for life Symbolizes the importance of loyalty in relationships and the strength of a lifelong partnership
Yin-yang balance Represents the balance between masculine and feminine energies in a relationship, emphasizing the importance of harmony and unity between partners
Courting behavior Encourages the practice of romance, chivalry, and proper courting behavior between partners

Overall, mandarin ducks are a powerful symbol of love and fidelity in Chinese culture, and their influence can still be seen today in literature, art, and other forms of media.

The use of Mandarin Duck imagery in Chinese art and literature

Mandarin ducks have been used as symbols in Chinese art and literature for centuries, representing a range of allegorical meanings. Here, we explore the significance of Mandarin ducks in Chinese culture.

The symbolism of Mandarin ducks

  • Pairing and fidelity: Mandarin ducks are often depicted as a pair, symbolizing love, marriage, and fidelity. This is based on the belief that Mandarin ducks mate for life and only have one partner.
  • Peace and harmony: Mandarin ducks are associated with serenity, tranquility, and a harmonious relationship.
  • Prosperity and luck: Mandarin ducks are also seen as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity, due to their bright and colorful plumage.

The use of Mandarin ducks in Chinese art and literature

Since the Tang dynasty, Mandarin ducks have been featured in Chinese art and literature. They were popular in silk and porcelain designs and were often depicted in landscapes or as the centerpiece in romantic scenes.

The famous Chinese poem “Mandarin Ducks in Pair” by Liu Yong is a love poem that compares the bond between a pair of Mandarin ducks with that of a loving couple. This poem has been widely read and appreciated since the Ming dynasty and is still celebrated today.

The number 4 and Mandarin ducks

In Chinese culture, the number four is associated with death, as the pronunciation of “four” is similar to the word for death. Therefore, it is considered unlucky to give gifts in sets of four.

Gift Set Implication
Two Mandarin ducks Auspicious symbol of love and harmony
Three Mandarin ducks Airplane. Not an auspicious symbol nor inauspicious
Four Mandarin ducks Associated with death and therefore unlucky
Five Mandarin ducks Symbolize the five blessings: longevity, wealth, health, love, and virtue

Therefore, to avoid any unintended negative symbolism, it is advisable to give Mandarin ducks in sets of two or five instead of four in Chinese culture.

The Feng Shui practice of using Mandarin Ducks for enhancing love and romance

The Mandarin Duck is a common symbol of love and romance in Feng Shui practice. They are often depicted in pairs, and are believed to bring marital happiness, harmony, and fidelity. Their vibrant colors and playful behavior also make them a popular ornamental choice in homes and gardens.

  • Mandarin Ducks as a Love Enhancer: In Feng Shui practice, Mandarin Ducks are considered powerful symbols of love and are thought to attract positive energy and enhance romantic relationships. Placing a pair of Mandarin Ducks in the southwest corner of your bedroom is said to increase your chances of finding a partner and improving your love life. You can also use Mandarin Ducks to improve an existing relationship by placing them in your relationship sector or your bedroom.
  • The Significance of Pairing: Mandarin Ducks are always depicted in pairs, symbolizing the idea of partnership and harmonious relationships. It is said that if you are single and want to find a partner, placing a pair of Mandarin Ducks on your bedside table can attract love into your life. If you are already in a relationship, placing a pair of Mandarin Ducks in your home can strengthen the bond you share with your partner.
  • The Number 5: In Feng Shui practice, the number 5 is associated with love and marriage, making a pair of Mandarin Ducks an ideal symbol for couples. If you want to enhance the energy of the Mandarin Ducks, you can pair them with other Feng Shui symbols associated with love and marriage, such as the Double Happiness symbol or the Rose Quartz crystal.

When using Mandarin Ducks for Feng Shui purposes, it is important to remember that the pair of ducks should always be facing each other, and there should not be any other Feng Shui symbols or objects that contradict their positive energy. By following these guidelines, you can maximize the potential of Mandarin Ducks for enhancing love and romance in your life.

Placement of Mandarin Ducks Effect
In the southwest corner of the bedroom Attracts romantic partners and improves love life
In the relationship sector of the home Strengthens the bond between partners
On the bedside table Attracts love into your life

In conclusion, using Mandarin Ducks in your home or office can help promote love and romance in your life. These playful and vibrant creatures are a symbol of partnership, fidelity, and marital harmony. Whether you are single and looking for love or in a committed relationship, incorporating Mandarin Ducks into your Feng Shui practice can help bring positive energy and harmony into your life.

The Mandarin Duck as a spiritual symbol for personal transformation

Since ancient times, the Mandarin Duck has been revered as a symbol of love, fidelity, and prosperity. However, it is less known that there is a deeper meaning behind this magnificent bird. In Chinese culture, the Mandarin Duck is believed to be a spiritual symbol for personal transformation.

  • Balance and harmony: The Mandarin Duck represents the balance of yin and yang energies, which are necessary for achieving harmony in life. It teaches us to find a balance between our masculine and feminine energies, our work and personal life, and our mental and emotional states. By achieving this balance, we can reduce stress, improve our relationships, and experience a sense of inner peace and fulfillment.
  • Emotional healing: The Mandarin Duck is also a symbol of emotional healing. It reminds us that we need to let go of past hurts and negative emotions to move forward in life. Just like the Mandarin Duck sheds its old feathers every year, we need to let go of what no longer serves us and embrace new experiences and opportunities. By doing so, we can release the emotional baggage that holds us back and begin a journey of personal transformation.
  • Relationships: In Chinese culture, the Mandarin Duck is known as the “couple’s duck” because of its lifelong bond with its mate. It is believed that keeping an image of Mandarin Ducks in the bedroom improves one’s relationships and promotes fidelity. This symbol can remind us to cultivate a deep and meaningful connection with our partner, communicate openly and honestly, and stay committed to our relationship through thick and thin.

In addition to the symbolism discussed above, the number 6 is also significant in Mandarin Duck symbolism. In numerology, 6 represents harmony, love, and balance. The Mandarin Duck’s bright and colorful plumage features a combination of six different shades, which further reinforces the idea of balance and harmony in life.

Color Symbolism
Red Passion, love, and happiness
Yellow Optimism, joy, and success
Green Growth, prosperity, and renewal
Blue Peace, tranquility, and relaxation
Orange Creativity, confidence, and courage
Purple Spirituality, intuition, and wisdom

Overall, the Mandarin Duck is a powerful spiritual symbol that can inspire us to embark on a journey of personal transformation, cultivate a sense of balance and harmony in life, and deepen our relationships with others.

The cultural significance of Mandarin Ducks in Japan

Mandarin Ducks have been revered for their beauty and symbolic significance in Japanese culture for centuries. In particular, they are often associated with love, marriage, and fidelity. Let’s take a closer look at the cultural significance of Mandarin Ducks in Japan.

  • The number 7: In Japan, the Mandarin Duck is often depicted in pairs, and the number seven is considered to be especially lucky when it comes to these lovebirds. This is because the Japanese word for “seven” sounds very similar to the word for “together” or “united.” Therefore, seeing a pair of Mandarin Ducks swimming together is seen as a sign of good luck and a happy relationship, while seeing seven pairs is considered to be particularly auspicious.
  • Symbol of love and fidelity: The Mandarin Duck is also a symbol of love and fidelity due to the strong bonds that the birds form with their mates. It is believed that Mandarin Ducks mate for life, and will return to the same mate year after year. This devotion to their partners has made the Mandarin Duck a popular symbol of fidelity and loyalty in Japan.
  • Depictions in art: The beauty of the Mandarin Duck has made it a popular subject in Japanese art. They are often depicted in traditional paintings, as well as on ceramics, textiles, and other decorative pieces. These depictions often emphasize the birds’ bright colors, and the way that they seem to float gracefully on the water.

The importance of Mandarin Ducks in Japanese culture cannot be overstated. From their association with love and fidelity to their role in traditional art, these birds are a beloved part of Japan’s cultural heritage.

Next, we’ll take a look at how Mandarin Ducks are viewed in other cultures around the world.

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Country Cultural significance
China In Chinese culture, the Mandarin Duck is also associated with love and fidelity. They are often depicted in art alongside lotus flowers, which are a symbol of purity and beauty.
Korea In Korean culture, the Mandarin Duck is seen as a symbol of peace and prosperity. They are associated with the goddess of the harvest, and are often depicted in art with images of crops and fruit.
North America In North America, the Mandarin Duck is not native, but has been introduced as a decorative species. They are often kept in urban parks and gardens, where they are admired for their bright colors and distinctive appearance.

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The Scientific Study of Mandarin Ducks and Their Behavior

The Mandarin Duck, or Aix galericulata, is a species of duck that originates from East Asia. These ducks are well-known for their striking and colorful plumage, making them a popular subject for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. However, beyond their physical beauty, Mandarin Ducks have also captured the attention of scientists due to their fascinating behavior and social interactions.

The Number 8

The number 8 is a significant number in Mandarin Duck symbolism, as it is believed to represent wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. This belief is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, as the number 8 is considered lucky due to its similarity in pronunciation to the word for “prosperity” in Mandarin. Therefore, many people believe that keeping a pair of Mandarin Ducks in their home or garden can bring good luck and abundance, especially if the pair consists of a male and a female.

  • Some people even believe that keeping eight Mandarin Ducks together can bring even greater prosperity and abundance.
  • According to Feng Shui, placing an image or statue of a Mandarin Duck in the southeast corner of a home or room can attract positive energy, as this is the corner associated with wealth and abundance.
  • Additionally, the number 8 has also been associated with romance and relationships, as Mandarin Ducks are monogamous and mate for life.

Overall, the number 8 plays an important role in Mandarin Duck symbolism and is often associated with good fortune, prosperity, and love. While there is no scientific evidence to support these beliefs, many people continue to find meaning and inspiration in the symbolism of these beautiful birds.

Other Fascinating Behaviors of Mandarin Ducks

Aside from their association with luck and prosperity, Mandarin Ducks also exhibit a number of interesting behaviors that have fascinated scientists and researchers for years. One particular behavior that has received a lot of attention is their courtship ritual, which involves elaborate displays of plumage, vocalizations, and physical movements.

Male Mandarin Ducks will begin their courtship displays in the fall, as they prepare to mate with female ducks during the winter breeding season. These displays involve a range of behaviors, including preening, head-bobbing, and neck-stretching, as well as vocalizations such as whistling and chattering. Additionally, male Mandarin Ducks will display their brightly colored plumage by fanning out their wings and tail feathers, creating an impressive and eye-catching display.

Behavior Description
Preening Males will carefully groom and arrange their feathers, especially the colorful feathers on their head and neck.
Head-bobbing Males will bob their heads up and down, sometimes while emitting chattering vocalizations.
Neck-stretching Males will extend their necks and point their bills towards the sky, making themselves appear taller and more impressive.
Vocalizations Males will make a range of sounds, including whistling, chattering, and hissing, both to attract females and to establish their territory.
Wing and tail displays Males will fan out their wings and tail feathers, displaying their brightly colored plumage in an impressive and eye-catching manner.

Ultimately, the courtship displays of Mandarin Ducks are a testament to the incredible beauty and complexity of nature. By observing these behaviors, scientists can gain a deeper understanding of the evolutionary pressures and social dynamics that shape the lives of these fascinating birds.

The Mandarin Duck as an endangered species and conservation efforts

The Mandarin Duck is a beautiful bird, native to East Asia, that is known for its brightly colored feathers. Unfortunately, this magnificent bird has become an endangered species due to habitat loss and hunting. In recent years, conservation efforts have been made to protect and restore the population of Mandarin Ducks.

  • Habitat loss: The Mandarin Duck’s natural habitat is typically found in wetlands and wooded areas. However, due to increased urbanization and agricultural development, many of these areas have been destroyed or altered, leaving the Mandarin Ducks without a suitable home.
  • Hunting: The Mandarin Duck is often hunted for its meat and feathers, which are highly valued in certain cultures. This has led to a significant decrease in the population of Mandarin Ducks in some areas, making them an endangered species.
  • Conservation efforts: In an effort to protect the Mandarin Duck, various conservation initiatives have been implemented. For example, organizations such as the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust are working to restore and protect wetland habitats that are critical to the survival of many bird species, including the Mandarin Duck. Additionally, laws and regulations have been enacted to prevent hunting and ensure that the bird’s habitat is protected.

Overall, the Mandarin Duck is a unique, valuable bird that needs to be protected in order to guarantee its survival for future generations. Conservation efforts have been made to address the threats to the species, but more needs to be done to ensure its survival. We should all be aware of the plight of the Mandarin Duck and do our part to support conservation efforts and protect its habitat.

Below is a table summarizing the current population status of the Mandarin Duck in various regions:

Region Population Status
Japan Endangered
China Near Threatened
Russia Least Concern

In conclusion, it’s essential to prioritize the conservation of endangered species such as the Mandarin Duck. With the appropriate measures in place, we can ensure that they continue to survive and thrive for generations to come.

The Modern Use of Mandarin Ducks in Branding and Marketing

Mandarin ducks have long been revered in Chinese culture for their beauty and the symbolism they represent. In modern times, they have also become a popular motif in branding and marketing campaigns, particularly in Asian countries where they are a highly recognizable symbol. In this subtopic, we will explore the modern use of Mandarin ducks in branding and marketing, including their meaning and significance.

The Symbolism of Mandarin Ducks in Branding and Marketing

  • Mandarin ducks symbolize love, fidelity, and affection, making them an ideal symbol for brands that want to promote these values.
  • Their vibrant colors and striking appearance make them a visually appealing symbol, which can help to capture the attention of consumers.
  • Mandarin ducks are also associated with prosperity and good luck, which can make them a popular choice for brands that want to promote positive associations.

The Use of Mandarin Ducks in Branding and Marketing Campaigns

Many brands use Mandarin ducks as a symbol in their advertising campaigns in order to convey a message of love and affection. For example, a company that sells luxury chocolates might feature a pair of Mandarin ducks in their advertising, to suggest that their chocolates are the perfect gift for someone special.

The use of Mandarin ducks is not limited to advertising, however. They can also be used as a motif in packaging design, logo design, and other branding elements. For example, a restaurant that specializes in Chinese cuisine might feature a pair of Mandarin ducks in their logo to emphasize the traditional and authentic nature of their food.

Mandarin Ducks in Asian Culture

In many Asian countries, Mandarin ducks are a highly recognizable symbol, and their use in branding and marketing is particularly common. In Japan, for example, they are associated with love and fidelity, and are often given as wedding gifts. In China, they are associated with good fortune and prosperity, and are often featured in traditional art and literature.

Country Symbolism
China Good fortune, prosperity, love, fidelity
Japan Love, fidelity, wedding gifts
Korea Harmony, peace, love, married couples

Overall, the symbolism and visual appeal of Mandarin ducks make them a popular choice for brands that want to promote positive associations such as love, prosperity, and good fortune. As such, they are likely to continue appearing in branding and marketing campaigns for years to come.

What Does Mandarin Duck Symbolize? FAQs

Q: What does mandarin duck symbolize in Chinese culture?
A: In Chinese culture, mandarin duck symbolizes love, romance, and loyalty between couples. It is believed that mandarin ducks mate for life and are loyal to their partner.

Q: What is the significance of mandarin duck in Feng Shui?
A: In Feng Shui, mandarin duck is a symbol of love and harmony. Placing a pair of mandarin ducks in the southwest corner of the bedroom is believed to enhance the relationship between couples.

Q: What does mandarin duck represent in Japanese culture?
A: In Japanese culture, mandarin duck represents love and fertility. It is often used as a symbol of marriage and is believed to bring luck and prosperity to the newlyweds.

Q: What is the mythological significance of mandarin duck?
A: In Greek mythology, mandarin duck is associated with the goddess Aphrodite, who is the goddess of love and beauty. It is believed that when mandarin ducks mate for life, they become a symbol of devotion and loyalty.

Q: What is the cultural significance of mandarin duck in art and literature?
A: Mandarin duck is a popular subject in Chinese and Japanese art and literature. It is often used as a symbol of love, fidelity, and happiness. The mandarin duck is also a motif in many traditional paintings and poems.

Q: What does mandarin duck mean as a spirit animal?
A: As a spirit animal, mandarin duck represents love, loyalty, and devotion. It encourages us to be faithful and committed in our relationships and to appreciate the beauty of life.

Q: Can mandarin duck be used as a personal talisman?
A: Yes, mandarin duck can be used as a personal talisman to attract love, create harmony in relationships, and enhance fertility. It can be worn as a pendant or placed in the bedroom for maximum effect.

Thank You for Reading About What Does Mandarin Duck Symbolize

We hope you enjoyed learning about the symbolism of mandarin duck. Whether you are looking for love, harmony, or loyalty in your life, mandarin duck can be a powerful symbol to guide you on your journey. Stay tuned for more interesting articles on symbolism and culture. Thank you for visiting and please come back soon!