Bottle Gourds In Chinese Culture Essay

In the ancient times of China, most people intentionally applied the symbolic meanings of good fortune in artworks and utensils to demonstrate their statuses and wealth. They not only integrated these symbols in quotidian lives, but also deeply into their cultures and art. This trend was especially common in rich and influential people for they were more superstitious and concerned of their social ranks. Gourds and peonies in particular, represent auspiciousness and wealth in Chinese cultures. In Shanghai Museum’s exhibition, bottle-gourds and peonies appeared repetitively in numerous artworks across dynasties which demonstrated their incomparable importance to Chinese civilization. Because of their propitious significances, there were also …show more content…
Furthermore, it was commonly used by native Americans, Africans, and Spaniards as receptacles. Traditionally, they would slice the gourds open, take out the inner fleshes and seeds, then use them as vessels to carry water or food. In Chinese and Japanese cultures, bottle-gourds have the mysterious power to heal the weak and expand life times. Being called as the “magic medicine”, bottle-gourds are common objects to appear on advertisements or signboards of pharmacists. Chinese believe by absorbing the rich content of protein, carotene, and vitamin C in gourds can alleviate their swelling knots and enhance immune systems effectively. The features of a bottle-gourd also make it unique from other fruits. While its durable skin represents vigour and longevity, it also symbolizes auspiciousness in Chines cultures and folklores. In ancient times, people believed gourds had magic power to heal the wounds and avert the evil spirits. It was regarded as “a charm to dissipate or ward off pernicious influences” (Wilson 162). When one slices the bottle-gourd into half to open, the cloud that emerges from within is believed to have the power to “trap demons.” Believing that the bottle-gourds have magic power, parents often