Week 3 Readings

3. A beginner’s motif vocabulary

A practical way to learn motifs

You don’t need a giant dictionary. Start with function words:

• main motif (the star)

• support motifs (background fillers: clouds, waves, scrolls)

• borders (frame and rhythm)

Common motif groups (starter set)

Animals

• Dragon: often linked to power/authority (context matters)

• Phoenix: often linked to virtue/auspiciousness (context matters)

• Fish: often linked to abundance (context matters)

• Crane: often linked to longevity (context matters)

Plants

• Lotus: purity/renewal associations in many contexts

• Peony: wealth/status associations in some contexts

• Plum/blossom: resilience/seasonal symbolism in some contexts

Borders and fillers

• Key-fret/meander: geometric continuity

• Ruyi heads: cloud-like framing shapes

• Waves/clouds: movement, space, atmosphere

Important: meanings vary across time, region, and use. Your job is to describe clearly first, then interpret carefully.