CH'ANG-O - A VOICELESS POEM
(Chinese Mythic)

Ch'ang-o - The Chinese Moon Goddess

Legend - Ch'ang-o stole this drug of immortality from her husband, I, and escaped to the moon. As a mediator the Hare protected her from I's wrath although she remained on the moon.

SYMBOLS

1. The Elixir of life - Is in a ritual vessel of the King of the Kui Dynasty.

2. Clouds - She escapes, protected by beneficent dragon.

3. Dragon - Supernatural power -- wisdom, goodness, hidden knowledge.

4. Plum blossom - Chinese National flower (five petals represent five Chinese clans). Symbol of long life.

5.Peony - Spring -- Love and affection.

6. Lotus - Summer, fruitful.

7. Chrysanthemum - Autumn, joviality.

8. Shou - Longevity (on border of dress).

9. Moon - Yin-Yang symbol (female/male).

10. Red - First rank, joy and luck.

11. Green - Ming Dynasty (Jade).

12. Black - North, Yin, winter, water.

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