{"id":105080,"date":"2025-01-27T08:39:01","date_gmt":"2025-01-27T13:39:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/swordis.com\/?p=105080"},"modified":"2025-01-27T08:39:03","modified_gmt":"2025-01-27T13:39:03","slug":"chinese-sword-symbols","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/swordis.com\/blog\/chinese-sword-symbols\/","title":{"rendered":"Chinese Sword Symbols and Their Significance"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><p>Table of Contents<\/p><nav><ul><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#1-the-big-dipper\">The Big Dipper<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#2-yin-and-yang\">Yin and Yang<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#3-bagua-or-eight-trigrams\">Bagua or Eight Trigrams<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#4-bats-and-longevity-symbols\">Bats and Longevity Symbols<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#5-swastika\">Swastika<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#6-dragons\">Dragons<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#7-taotie\">T\u0101oti\u00e8<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#8-lotus\">Lotus<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#9-bamboo\">Bamboo<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#10-coins\">Coins<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#11-mantra\">Mantra<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#12-emblems-of-the-eight-immortals\">Emblems of the Eight Immortals<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Chinese society has always believed in the power of symbolisms, amulets, and talismans. So, it&#8217;s unsurprising that swords are engraved with auspicious symbols. These ornaments are beautiful and meaningful to Chinese culture and philosophy. Many represent luck, long life, happiness, prosperity, and wealth, all of which remain relevant in modern times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let&#8217;s explore the most popular Chinese sword symbols seen on blades and mountings and their significance in Chinese culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-the-big-dipper\">1. The Big Dipper<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" data-src=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Big-Dipper-Design.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105245 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Big-Dipper-Design.png 900w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Big-Dipper-Design-740x493.png 740w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 900px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 900\/600;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In astronomy, the Big Dipper is a group of seven stars in the Ursa Major constellation. In Chinese, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mandarinmansion.com\/glossary\/beidou\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">it is known as <em>B\u011bid\u01d2u<\/em> (\u5317\u6597)<\/a>, which means <em>Northern Dipper<\/em>. It is frequently worshiped by the Chinese and is considered the throne of the supreme deity Shang-di in ancient Chinese religion and later Taoism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Big Dipper is commonly found on sword blades, often in the form of seven brass dots, sometimes with lines connecting them. The symbol is most seen on the Chinese straight sword <em>jian<\/em>, which collectors call the <em>seven stars jian<\/em>. It also appears on <em>guandao<\/em> polearms, or <em>y\u01cenyu\u00e8d\u0101o<\/em> (\u5043\u6708\u5200), and rarely on spearheads and saber blades.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"912\" data-src=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/A-rare-inscription-referring-to-the-Big-Dipper-in-text-on-a-large-Daoist-jian-1024x912.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105242 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/912;width:auto;height:600px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/A-rare-inscription-referring-to-the-Big-Dipper-in-text-on-a-large-Daoist-jian-1024x912.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/A-rare-inscription-referring-to-the-Big-Dipper-in-text-on-a-large-Daoist-jian-740x659.jpg 740w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>A rare inscription referring to the Big Dipper in text on a large Daoist jian &#8211; Credits: Mandarin Mansion Antiques<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Sometimes, the Big Dipper appears as an inscription on Taoist <em>jian<\/em>. The inscription \u5317\u6597\u4e03\u661f\u5357\u6597\u516d\u661f translates as <em>Big Dipper and South Douliou Star<\/em>, in which the latter is a Chinese constellation we know as Sagittarius. In Taoism, the Big Dipper is thought to have strong exorcistic powers and plays a significant role in meditation and rituals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-yin-and-yang\">2. Yin and Yang<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Shuangjian-with-ivory-grips-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105256 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/1024;width:auto;height:600px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Shuangjian-with-ivory-grips-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Shuangjian-with-ivory-grips-110x110.jpg 110w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Shuangjian-with-ivory-grips-70x70.jpg 70w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Shuangjian-with-ivory-grips-508x508.jpg 508w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Shuangjian-with-ivory-grips-740x740.jpg 740w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Shuangjian-with-ivory-grips-234x234.jpg 234w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Shuangjian-with-ivory-grips.jpg 1306w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Shuangjian with ivory grips &#8211; Credits: Mandarin Mansion Antiques<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>In Chinese philosophy, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.learnreligions.com\/the-yin-yang-symbol-3183206\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">the Yin and Yang<\/a> are opposing but connected forces that underlie everything in nature. It is based on the principle of dualism; the Yin represents the female, earth, moon, and darkness, while the Yang symbolizes the male, heaven, sun, and light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also known as the <em>taiji<\/em> symbol, the Yin and Yang comprises a circle divided into two, and each half contains a smaller circle of the opposite color. Some Taoist <em>jian<\/em> features the Yin and Yang symbol on the pommel or sword blade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-bagua-or-eight-trigrams\">3. <em>Bagua<\/em> or Eight Trigrams<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" data-src=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Eight-Trigrams-Theme.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105253 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Eight-Trigrams-Theme.png 900w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Eight-Trigrams-Theme-740x493.png 740w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 900px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 900\/600;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The <em>B\u0101gu\u00e0<\/em> (\u516b\u5366), meaning <em>Eight Trigrams<\/em>, consists of combinations of three lines, broken or unbroken, arranged in a circle. In Chinese philosophy and belief, each trigram has its own attributes or virtues and refers to a particular element, animal, and direction, typically used in divination. In Taoism, each of the trigrams represents a Taoist immortal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Eight Trigrams often appear on the straight sword <em>jian<\/em>, usually on pommels and blades. Some octagonal pommels feature the Yin and Yang at the center of the symbol. Some sword blades also feature the deconstructed form of the Eight Trigrams. Some believe it has the power to ensure prosperity and avoid misfortune.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-bats-and-longevity-symbols\">4. Bats and Longevity Symbols<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" data-src=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Bats-and-Longevity-Design.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105244 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Bats-and-Longevity-Design.png 900w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Bats-and-Longevity-Design-740x493.png 740w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 900px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 900\/600;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In Chinese belief, bats are symbols of happiness and longevity. The Chinese pronunciation for the word <em>bat<\/em> is <em>f\u00fa<\/em>, which is the homonym of \u798f\u2014happiness, good fortune, blessing, and prosperity. The Chinese god of happiness, Fuxing, is sometimes shown as a bat, symbolizing good luck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, <em>shou<\/em> (\u58fd) is the Chinese character for longevity and is often used to offer wishes for long life. Together, these symbols form the pun <em>f\u00fash\u00f2u<\/em> (\u798f\u58fd), which means <em>a long and happy life<\/em>. Some <em>jian<\/em> mountings, especially the <em>fushou<\/em> type, feature both stylized bats and longevity symbols on the handguard, pommel, and scabbard fittings.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-swastika\">5. Swastika<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" data-src=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Swastika-Design.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105257 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Swastika-Design.png 900w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Swastika-Design-740x493.png 740w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 900px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 900\/600;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The term <em>swastika<\/em> comes <a href=\"https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/topic\/swastika\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">from the Sanskrit <em>svastika<\/em><\/a>, which means <em>conducive to well-being<\/em>. In the Buddhist tradition, it represents the footprints of the Buddha. When Buddhism spread in China and Japan, the swastika also became widespread, symbolizing prosperity, abundance, and long life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Interlocking patterns of swastikas are sometimes carved on the sword&#8217;s grip or featured on the guard of Chinese swords, implying that the owner wishes lots of luck in his life and his family&#8217;s bloodline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-dragons\">6. Dragons<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" data-src=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Dragon-Design.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105250 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Dragon-Design.png 900w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Dragon-Design-740x493.png 740w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 900px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 900\/600;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike the Western dragon, the Chinese dragon is regarded as a symbol of goodness, strength, and the spirit of change. Some decorations on sword mountings and blades feature dragons chasing a pearl, typical on Chinese imperial coats of arms from the Han to the Qing dynasty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A five-clawed dragon was the emblem of imperial power, worn by the emperor and his sons. A four-clawed dragon was restricted to the princes of the third and fourth rank, while certain officials used a serpent-like creature with five claws as their emblem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>Kui<\/em> Dragons<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"781\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Kuiwen-motifs-on-the-hilt-fittings-of-a-Qing-saber-late-18th-to-early-19th-century-781x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105254 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 781px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 781\/1024;width:auto;height:600px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Kuiwen-motifs-on-the-hilt-fittings-of-a-Qing-saber-late-18th-to-early-19th-century-781x1024.jpg 781w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Kuiwen-motifs-on-the-hilt-fittings-of-a-Qing-saber-late-18th-to-early-19th-century-740x970.jpg 740w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Kuiwen-motifs-on-the-hilt-fittings-of-a-Qing-saber-late-18th-to-early-19th-century-scaled.jpg 1954w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 781px) 100vw, 781px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Ku\u00edw\u00e9n\u00a0motifs on the hilt fittings of a Qing saber, late 18th to early 19th century &#8211; Credits: Mandarin Mansion Antiques<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>The <em>kui<\/em> is a primitive form of a dragon, and <em>ku\u00edw\u00e9n<\/em> (\u5914\u7d0b) is a Chinese motif that incorporates these primitive dragons. They are one-legged beasts and are generally seen as benevolent creatures that restrain greed. However, there are various forms of dragons in Chinese mythology and emblems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In sword mountings, the <em>kui<\/em> dragons often look like abstract motifs or scrollwork with dragon faces in the designs. These <em>ku\u00edw\u00e9n<\/em> patterns were inspired by those seen in ancient Chinese bronzes, which were prized collectibles among the emperor and Chinese elites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>Ch\u012bl\u00f3ng<\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" data-src=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Chilong-Design.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105246 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Chilong-Design.png 900w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Chilong-Design-740x493.png 740w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 900px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 900\/600;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A subspecies of a dragon, the <em>ch\u012bl\u00f3ng<\/em> (\u87ad\u9f8d) is a rain or water dragon, recognizable by its salamander-like appearance and a forked tail. These dragons are considered immature creatures that have not yet grown horns. In sword mountings, they often represent hopes and aspirations and are not associated with imperial status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7-taotie\"><em>7.<\/em> <em>T\u0101oti\u00e8<\/em><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"872\" data-src=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Early-Chinese-shortsword-with-a-taotie-design-1024x872.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105251 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/872;width:auto;height:600px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Early-Chinese-shortsword-with-a-taotie-design-1024x872.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Early-Chinese-shortsword-with-a-taotie-design-740x630.jpeg 740w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Early Chinese shortsword with a t\u0101oti\u00e8 design &#8211; Credits: Mandarin Mansion Antiques<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mandarinmansion.com\/glossary\/taotie\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>t\u0101oti\u00e8<\/em> (\u9955\u992e) is a mythical creature<\/a> most recognized for its zoomorphic mask. Its name means glutton, likely derived from its gluttonous nature as an ever-devouring beast. Many believe it was a warning against gluttony or self-indulgence, while others suggest it may be a protective, totemic, or representation of the forces of nature. The symbol often appears on zoomorphic sword guards of <em>jian<\/em>, in a backward-swept form.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8-lotus\">8. Lotus<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" data-src=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Lotus-Design.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105255 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Lotus-Design.png 900w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Lotus-Design-740x493.png 740w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 900px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 900\/600;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The lotus flower is considered sacred in Eastern cultures and holds various symbolisms, such as purity, rebirth, faith, and integrity. The lotus emerges from the muddy depths and grows toward the surface, exposing itself as a pristine flower. In Buddhism, the lotus is one of the eight auspicious symbols and represents the path toward enlightenment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The lotus motif is often found on sword mountings, from sword guards to ferrules and pommels. The most common lotus motifs are engraving or pierced metalwork, such as stylized lotus petal borders on sword guards. Some Taoist <em>jian<\/em>, which feature several Taoist motifs, are also equipped with a lotus-shaped guard, likely associated with religious practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9-bamboo\">9. Bamboo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" data-src=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Bamboo-Design.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105243 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Bamboo-Design.png 900w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Bamboo-Design-740x493.png 740w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 900px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 900\/600;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Bamboo is an important plant in Chinese culture and mythology. It serves as a symbol of longevity, likely due to its durability and the fact that it flourishes throughout winter. Bamboo motifs are common on Chinese sword guards, usually as decoration, such as bamboo-sectioned rims.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10-coins\">10. Coins<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" data-src=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Coin-Design.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105249 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Coin-Design.png 900w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Coin-Design-740x493.png 740w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 900px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 900\/600;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Chinese coin symbolizes prosperity and often doubles as an ornament and amulet on sword mountings. Coin cutouts are popular ornaments in Southern China. Some sword mountings, including pommels, ferrules, and suspension bands, are sometimes pierced with stylized coin motifs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11-mantra\">11. Mantra<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Chinese-hushou-with-lantsa-script-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105247 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/1024;width:auto;height:600px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Chinese-hushou-with-lantsa-script-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Chinese-hushou-with-lantsa-script-110x110.jpg 110w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Chinese-hushou-with-lantsa-script-70x70.jpg 70w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Chinese-hushou-with-lantsa-script-508x508.jpg 508w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Chinese-hushou-with-lantsa-script-740x740.jpg 740w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Chinese-hushou-with-lantsa-script-234x234.jpg 234w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Chinese h\u00f9sh\u01d2u with lantsa script &#8211; Credits: Mandarin Mansion Antiques<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Some Chinese sword guards feature auspicious markings, such as a mantra for meditation. A notable example features the well-known mantra <em>o\u1e43 \u0101 h\u016b\u1e43<\/em> in Lantsa script, which is thought to signify the trinity of body, sound, and spirit. The first letter represents the syllable <em>om<\/em>, which is said to embody the essence of the entire universe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The mantras written in Lantsa script were also common in helmets of Manchus and Mongols, who were Tibetan Buddhists. They were even worn by Qianlong emperors and later by high-ranking military officials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"12-emblems-of-the-eight-immortals\">12. Emblems of the Eight Immortals<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" data-src=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Eight-Immortals-Design.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-105252 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Eight-Immortals-Design.png 900w, https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Eight-Immortals-Design-740x493.png 740w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 900px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 900\/600;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most recognizable themes in Chinese legend and artwork, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/43382237\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">the Eight Immortals<\/a> is a group of legendary figures who attained immortality. Each has his own story and emblem to signify his power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Among the emblems of the Eight Immortals are the gourd, fan, sword, bamboo drum, castanets, flute, lotus, and flowers. Some Taoist <em>jian<\/em> swords feature the depictions of figures themselves on blades, while some scabbard features carvings of items associated with the Immortals.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"accordion accordion-sources article-slide \"><div class=\"faq-item accordion__item\"><h5 class=\"faq-item__heading accordion__handler\">Sources Cited<span class=\"faq-item__opener faq-item__opener--dark\"><\/span><\/h5><div class=\"faq-item__content accordion__slide content-area\"><ol>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An, D., &amp; Yang, L. (2008). <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Handbook of Chinese Mythology<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (J. A. Turner, Ed.). Oxford University Press.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">B\u0101gu\u00e0 (\u516b\u5366) &#8220;Eight Trigrams&#8221;<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. (2021, March 21). Mandarin Mansion. Retrieved April 11, 2023, from <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mandarinmansion.com\/glossary\/bagua-bagua-eight-trigrams\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/www.mandarinmansion.com\/glossary\/bagua-bagua-eight-trigrams<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">B\u011bid\u01d2u (\u5317\u6597)<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. (2019, June 27). Mandarin Mansion. Retrieved April 11, 2023, from <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mandarinmansion.com\/glossary\/beidou\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/www.mandarinmansion.com\/glossary\/beidou<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eberhard, W. (1988). <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=K4LrAAAAMAAJ&amp;dq=Dictionary+of+Chinese+Symbols:+Hidden+Symbols+in+Chinese+Life+and+Thought&amp;hl=en&amp;newbks=1&amp;newbks_redir=1&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjJlbHxgpaLAxVdia8BHWyqH_UQ6AF6BAgHEAM\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dictionary of Chinese Symbols: Hidden Symbols in Chinese Life and Thought<\/span><\/i><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Taylor &amp; Francis.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Handler, S. (2005). <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=CyY4AQAAIAAJ&amp;q=Ming+Furniture+in+the+Light+of+Chinese+Architecture&amp;dq=Ming+Furniture+in+the+Light+of+Chinese+Architecture&amp;hl=en&amp;newbks=1&amp;newbks_redir=1&amp;printsec=frontcover&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjxq9f3gpaLAxX1c_UHHbymGt4Q6AF6BAgMEAM\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ming Furniture in the Light of Chinese Architecture<\/span><\/i><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Ten Speed.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ku\u00edw\u00e9n (\u5914\u7d0b)<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. (2023, February 23). Mandarin Mansion. Retrieved April 11, 2023, from <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mandarinmansion.com\/glossary\/kuiwen\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/www.mandarinmansion.com\/glossary\/kuiwen<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Roberts, J. (2010). <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=GvtmngEACAAJ&amp;dq=Chinese+Mythology,+A+to+Z&amp;hl=en&amp;newbks=1&amp;newbks_redir=1&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjf9Mv9gpaLAxUNnK8BHSPdAHoQ6AF6BAgEEAM\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chinese Mythology, A to Z<\/span><\/i><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Chelsea House.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">T\u0101oti\u00e8 (\u9955\u992e)<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. (2019, May 15). Mandarin Mansion. Retrieved April 11, 2023, from <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mandarinmansion.com\/glossary\/taotie\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/www.mandarinmansion.com\/glossary\/taotie<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Taotie | mask motif | Britannica<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. (n.d.). Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved April 11, 2023, from <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/art\/taotie\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/art\/taotie<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Williams, C. A. S. (2006). <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=xwnRAgAAQBAJ&amp;printsec=frontcover&amp;dq=Chinese+symbolism+and+art+motifs+:+a+comprehensive+handbook+on+symbolism+in+Chinese+art+through+the+ages+(T.+Barrow,+Ed.)&amp;hl=en&amp;newbks=1&amp;newbks_redir=1&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjToqOGg5aLAxVqc_UHHZPYF_YQ6AF6BAgKEAM\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chinese symbolism and art motifs : a comprehensive handbook on symbolism in Chinese art through the ages<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (T. Barrow, Ed.)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Tuttle Publishing.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Chinese society has always believed in the power of symbolisms, amulets, and talismans. So, it&#8217;s unsurprising that swords are engraved with auspicious symbols. These ornaments are beautiful and meaningful to Chinese culture and philosophy. Many represent luck, long life, happiness, prosperity, and wealth, all of which remain relevant in modern times. Let&#8217;s explore the most&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":105248,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[59],"tags":[],"class_list":{"2":"type-post","6":"hentry"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/105080","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=105080"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/105080\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":105262,"href":"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/105080\/revisions\/105262"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/105248"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=105080"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=105080"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/swordis.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=105080"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}