Page 282 - A Dictionary of Chinese Symbols BIG Book
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A-Z 275
In association with one or more magpies (xi), however, representation of a panther
takes on quite a different meaning. Xi can also mean ‘joy, pleasure’, and bao can mean
‘to announce, herald’. So, such a picture can be interpreted as meaning ‘May this picture
herald joy for you’ and it makes a very suitable family present.
Parrot
ying-wu; ying-ge
The parrot is native to South China, but has been known all over the country for more
than two thousand years: an ancient text mentions talking parrots. The bird is often
depicted holding a pearl in its beak, accompanying the goddess Guan-yin.
By itself, the word for parrot can simply mean ‘a young girl’. The expression ‘the
parrot invites (us) to tea’ refers to a bar-maid or a girl in a brothel.
Parrots
