This six-sided stool is made out of a precious hardwood—called zitan in China—used primarily for furniture gracing Qing dynasty palaces. This example convey auspicious messages through the fruits and flowers held by the pairs of young boys on each side.

Auspicious Decoration: Flower and Fruits

Flower: lotus for harmony. Fruits: pomegranate and lychee for many sons, Buddha’s Hand and peach for longevity, and persimmon for a successful career.

Overall, the design functions as a rebus (a visual riddle) offering wishes for many happy, wealthy, and long-lived children.