Why might a newly married Chinese couple receive the gift of a scroll painted with peonies.
The gift of a scroll painted with peonies holds cultural significance and symbolism in Chinese tradition. Here are a few reasons why a newly married Chinese couple might receive such a gift:
1. Symbol of Prosperity and Wealth: Peonies are considered the "King of Flowers" in Chinese culture and are often associated with prosperity, abundance, and wealth. Gifting a scroll painted with peonies signifies the wish for the couple to have a prosperous and financially successful marriage.
2. Symbol of Love and Happiness: Peonies are also seen as a symbol of love, romance, and marital bliss. They represent a happy and harmonious relationship, and gifting a peony scroll expresses the desire for the couple to have a loving and joyful marriage.
3. Symbol of Honor and Respect: In Chinese culture, peonies have historically been associated with nobility and honor. By receiving a peony scroll, the couple is being honored and respected, emphasizing their status as a newly wedded couple.
4. Symbol of Good Fortune and Luck: Peonies are believed to bring good fortune and luck in Chinese folklore. By presenting a scroll with peonies, it is believed that the couple will be blessed with good luck, happiness, and a smooth journey together.
5. Cultural Tradition: The gifting of peonies and peony scrolls has been a longstanding tradition in Chinese weddings. It is a common practice to gift items that are associated with positive symbolism and cultural significance to bless the newlyweds with a prosperous and happy life together.