Page 381 - A Dictionary of Chinese Symbols BIG Book

A Dictionary of Chinese Symbols 374
Twelve Twelve

shi-er

The old Chinese year had twelve months of either 28 or 29 days. This system was based
on the lunar calendar, and gave a year of only 354 days. As a result, the calendar was
very soon out of step with the seasons, and intercalary months had to he introduced: in
every 19-year period, intercalary months had to be inserted no less than seven times.
Years with intercalary months were very popular, as officials were then paid thirteen
times instead of twelve!

Ceremonial tripods