Times Dictionary Of Chinese Symbols

This dictionary is a unique and essential guide to the hidden symbols in Chinese arts, customs, and beliefs. More than 400 important symbols, such as plants, gods, clouds, animals, and numbers, are described along with their esoteric meanings and connections. The book traces their development in Chinese literature, customs, and attitudes to life, covering topics like astrology, geomancy, the forces of nature, marriage, body language, medicine, fate, the zodiac, occult phenomena, sexual symbolism, belief in the spirit world, oracles, the soul, yin and yang, the Immortals, ancient festivals, superstitions, and the harmony of the Middle Way. Profusely illustrated with classical Chinese paintings, this book helps readers better understand Chinese art and thought.