The Bountiful and Joyful Pavilion 1871 - 1933

This delicate ink tablet, made by Jian Guzhai, features swirling patterns and stylized mythical creatures—icons laden with cultural significance. Flanking the central inscription, we see hybrid forms, perhaps dragons or lions, rendered with sinuous bodies and ornate manes. These motifs evoke the ancient Chinese belief in auspicious creatures, symbols of power, protection, and good fortune. The dragon, for instance, has long been associated with imperial authority and cosmic energy, its image reappearing in countless artworks across millennia. The symbolic weight of these forms extends beyond China, echoing in other cultures' mythologies. The griffin, for instance, shares visual and symbolic resonances. The recurring use of these motifs is no mere coincidence; it's a testament to the enduring power of collective memory. Like dreams, these images tap into our subconscious, evoking deep-seated emotions. By inviting contemplation on the interplay between tradition, symbolism, and the human psyche, we recognize the emotional and psychological depth embedded within this tablet. These are not just figures; they are the echoes of shared human experiences.