The Auspicious Serpent Presents Blessings
Dublin Core
Title
The Auspicious Serpent Presents Blessings
Subject
LibArt 2025
Description
This artwork is a traditional Chinese papercut featuring an intricately designed snake, symbolizing wisdom, prosperity, and renewal. The character "福" (meaning "blessing" or "good fortune") at the top enhances the auspicious meaning of the piece. Due to the rhyme between "Tu" (兔, rabbit) and "Fu" (富, prosperity) in the saying "蛇盘兔,辈辈富" ("A snake coils around a rabbit, bringing wealth for generations"), the rabbit positioned at the center of the snake symbolizes the wish for descendants to enjoy a prosperous and fulfilling life. The delicate craftsmanship, with its symmetrical patterns and fine details, reflects the cultural significance of paper cutting as an art form deeply rooted in Chinese heritage, often used for festive celebrations, particularly during the Lunar New Year. The red color, a symbol of luck and happiness, further reinforces the artwork’s role in conveying well-wishes for the year ahead.
Creator
Shangyi Lv
Graduate studies in Art History
Graduate studies in Art History
Date
2025
Rights
Belong to Creator
Format
Paper cutting
8.5" X 5"
8.5" X 5"
Citation
Shangyi Lv Graduate studies in Art History, “The Auspicious Serpent Presents Blessings,” KU Libraries Exhibits, accessed July 26, 2025, https://exhibits.lib.ku.edu/items/show/9719.