Era: Republic of China
Region: Beijing
Diameter: 6.5 cm
Weight: 55 grams (each)
In Chinese folklore, the character "囍" (double happiness) is widely used in daily life, especially in wedding items and celebrations. Joy and happiness are always the goals that people aspire to and pursue. Hence, the "囍" or "喜" motif can be found in calligraphy, textiles, embroidery, furniture, and utensils. Variations of the character, such as single happiness, double happiness, and circular happiness, are common. In gold and silver jewelry, double happiness is often used, especially to create a festive atmosphere at wedding ceremonies.
"囍," commonly referred to as "double happiness," appears similar to a Chinese character but is essentially a symbol. Formed by merging two "喜" (happiness) characters, it is widely recognized as an auspicious symbol in China. In traditional Chinese culture, "喜" (happiness) is considered one of the "Five Blessings." Since ancient times, the character "喜" has been highly valued, representing numerous joyous occasions, such as wedding nights, academic success, reunions with old friends, visits from relatives, and the arrival of friends from afar. Additionally, Chinese people have created many auspicious motifs related to happiness, such as "Magpies on Plum Branches," "Happiness Descends from Heaven," "Heavenly Joy," and "Double Happiness Arrives at the Door," to express deep emotions and sentiments. Chinese people love wearing gold and silver bracelets, believing that these ornaments and motifs ward off disasters, ensure health, and bring everlasting happiness and good fortune.
Detailed Description
In China, a land rich in tradition and charm, the "囍" character is like a bright red splash deeply rooted in every corner of daily life, especially in wedding celebrations. It is synonymous with joy and festivity, embodying people’s longing and pursuit of a beautiful life. The character is not just a simple symbol; it carries the collective wishes and emotions of the people.
"囍," affectionately known as "double happiness," is uniquely shaped, combining two "喜" characters into one. Though it resembles a Chinese character, it transcends its literal meaning, becoming a symbol rich with meaning. This motif, with its unique shape and profound connotations, is almost universally recognized in Chinese households as a symbol of good fortune and happiness. It is widely applied in calligraphy, textiles, embroidery, furniture, and daily utensils, decorating living spaces with its unique charm and spreading a sense of joy and festivity.
In traditional Chinese belief, "喜" (happiness) is considered one of the "Five Blessings." It represents not only the joy of marriage but also encompasses various life joys, such as the glory of academic success, the warmth of meeting old friends, the happiness of visits from relatives, and the joy of friends arriving from afar. These moments are considered "happiness" in life, celebrated and cherished. Thus, the character "喜" in Chinese culture is not merely a character but an emotional expression and a celebration of life.
To deeply express this emotion, the Chinese have created numerous auspicious motifs related to "喜," such as "Magpies on Plum Branches," symbolizing good news; "Happiness Descends from Heaven," representing unexpected happiness; "Heavenly Joy," depicting a general atmosphere of joy; and "Double Happiness Arrives at the Door," directly conveying the joy of two happy events occurring simultaneously. These motifs are not only visually appealing but also rich in cultural significance, reflecting people’s endless hope for a prosperous and happy life.
In gold and silver jewelry design, the "double happiness" motif is especially common, serving as essential decorations at wedding celebrations and as auspicious ornaments during significant life events. These pieces are not just for decoration but also embody people’s best wishes for the future. By wearing these symbols of good fortune, people hope to ward off disasters, ensure family health, and live a life filled with happiness and longevity.
In summary, the "囍" character and its derived artistic forms are indispensable in traditional Chinese culture. They record people’s love for life, pursuit of happiness, and endless expectations for the future. Whether as wedding decorations, daily life adornments, or motifs in gold and silver jewelry, the "囍" character, with its unique charm, conveys warmth and joy, becoming a bridge connecting the past and the future, the heart and reality. Touching it, one can feel the happiness and contentment rooted deep within. This transmission of joy and festivity reflects the eternal pursuit of the Chinese people for a good life and their deep-rooted longing for "happiness."
