The motifs that appear on traditional Chinese costumes were identical to those found on ceramics and lacquers. Motifs found on Chinese robes reveal a particular symbolic culture. More than being decorative, they denote social standing, moral messages, and tell historical and legendary stories.

 "Twelve symbols"

Emperors from the Han (206 BC- 220 AD) to the Ming (1368-1644) dynasties had their robes decorated with all of the "twelve symbols." The symbols consist of, in an order of importance, the sun, the moon, the constellations, mountain, dragon, flowery creature, sacrificial vessel, water plant, flames, grain, axe-head, and the "Fu". The Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), however, elevated the symbol of a dragon, which was part of the "Twelve Symbols", as the main symbol used on imperial robes.

The origins of the "twelve symbols" are vague but they seem to relate to a time when the emperor made sacrifices at imperial altar s. The sacrifices were made at specific times during a year which coincided with the spring and autumn equinoxes and winter and summer solstices. Emperors would wear specially prepared robes with the embroidered "twelve symbols" to make these sacrifices.

It's recorded that only emperors could wear robes embellished with all of the "twelve symbols." Officials were only allowed to wear robes decorated with some of the "twelve symbols," and the social status of an individual decided what kinds of symbols would be used. For example, a robe for a higher official might be decorated with eight symbols, ranging from dragon to the "Fu".

·The Sun, the Moon, and the Constellation

The sun, the moon and the constellation symbolize the light and wisdom of the emperor shining upon the world. These three symbols are celestial and relate to the measurement of time.

·Mountain

The mountain stands for the earth and clouds, the latter producing rain that bring benefits to the world. Mountain is used to symbolize the overwhelming power of emperors.

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