Decoding Antique Chinese Art- Symbolism, Styles, and Value

1. Decoding Antique Chinese Art: Symbolism, Styles, and Value Do you love old Chinese art and want to add some to your collection? Antique Chinese art isn’t just beautiful to look at—it’s filled with history, symbolism, and craftsmanship that spans centuries. This short guide will help you understand what makes these pieces so special, so you can appreciate them on a whole new level. Symbolism in colors The meaning of colors in antique Chinese art has evolved through the ages. ● Red: You’ll often see red on pottery and in decor from the Han Dynasty. It’s viewed to represent happiness and fortune. ● Black: Black represents water, an essential element of life, which for them, symbolizes both strength and stability. ● White: White is commonly worn at funerals and used in rituals that are tied to grief and remembrance. ● Yellow: During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, this color was reserved almost entirely for the emperor. It’s believed to represent power, status, and a divine connection to the Earth. ● Green: Artists often used green to represent harmony, vitality, and the renewing energy of life. Popular styles Antique Chinese art spans a wide range of styles grounded in tradition and meticulous technique: • Calligraphy turned written language into visual expressions that show rhythm, restraint, and personality with every stroke. • Landscape paintings usually focused on mountains, rivers, and forests, not just to depict nature but also to explore ideas like balance and the spiritual connection between humans and the land.

2. • Chinese porcelain and pottery makers experimented with glaze and firing to produce everything from functional wares to imperial pieces. • Silk embroidery and tapestry artisans stitched birds, flowers, dragons, and symbols into cloth used for décor and ceremony. • Sculptures carried religious, political, or protective meaning, often taking the form of animals or deities carved from wood, bronze, or jade. Value of antique Chinese art Chinese art was originally collected by Chinese scholars, emperors, and families who valued its cultural and historical significance. Over time, that interest spread across the globe. Like any historical art form, though, looking for authentic pieces is the hardest part. That’s why working with a trusted dealer and business is often the most prudent thing to do. They can help guide you through the process and verify the history behind each piece. While some items fetch incredibly high prices at auction, not every piece is out of reach. There are still authentic, meaningful works of Chinese art available at more approachable price points, especially if you’re willing to do a little digging! Grow your collections If you're thinking about growing your collection of antique Chinese art, visit Pacific Antiques Mall (open daily from 10 am to 7 pm), where you'll find a carefully curated selection of authentic pieces backed by knowledgeable dealers. Find out more at pacificantiquesmall.com.