Chinese auspicious symbols in design: dragon, pixiu, carp and coins
Chinese auspicious symbols add meaning to logos and packaging, but they must suit the business and not copy other brands. This article explains popular symbols and how to adapt them into something distinctive.
HUANGJUI Design journal
Meanings of popular symbols
The dragon symbolises power and success. The pixiu is an auspicious creature believed to take in wealth without letting it out. A carp swimming upstream symbolises perseverance leading to success, and the square-holed Chinese coin symbolises wealth. Each symbol therefore suits different businesses and goals.
Simplify and make it the brand's own
Traditional symbols are often highly detailed, which is hard to use on small screens or small signs. Designers reduce them to their essential lines or merge them with the first letter of the brand name. This keeps the auspicious meaning while avoiding a stock image anyone could use.
Check cultural appropriateness
Some symbols carry specific religious or traditional meaning, so use them respectfully and avoid unsuitable placements such as shoe soles or bin bags. For brands selling abroad, check that the symbol means the same thing in the target market, so the good fortune reaches customers as intended.
Apply these ideas to your brand
Tell our team about your business to plan design suited to its real uses.
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