Year of the Snake – 2025
In Chinese traditional culture, the snake is a symbol of auspiciousness, prosperity, and wealth. It is believed that the snake brings good fortune and abundance. The painting features 10 snakes, and according to Qabalistic theory, the number 10 signifies “the emanation of primal essence,” symbolizing boundless potential and the perfect harmony of auspicious meanings.
In Chinese traditional culture, the snake is a symbol of auspiciousness, prosperity, and wealth. It is believed that the snake brings good fortune and abundance. The painting features 10 snakes, and according to Qabalistic theory, the number 10 signifies “the emanation of primal essence,” symbolizing boundless potential and the perfect harmony of auspicious meanings.
From left to right, the snakes are arranged as follows:
- Coral Snake: Representing wisdom, the Coral Snake is a symbol of knowledge and insight. Queen Victoria famously wore a snake-shaped bracelet during her coronation, hoping to harness the wisdom of the snake.
- Golden Python: A symbol of luck, fortune, and divinity, the Golden Python encircles a blue-and-white porcelain jar bearing peaches and pomegranates. These fruits symbolize wealth, blessings, and prosperity.
- Green Anaconda: Accompanying the Golden Python, the Green Anaconda is one of the largest snakes in the world and is said to be a spiritual serpent. According to legend, a green snake lived in the Wei palace during the Han Dynasty, symbolizing growth and vitality. Green snakes are believed to represent life force and healing energy.
- Red Snake on Chalice: The red snake coiled around a chalice represents vitality and the life-giving force of blood. Traditionally, the chalice is used to collect venom, which has evolved into a symbol of healthcare and protection.
- Bejeweled Pink Python: The pink python, adorned with jewels, is one of the oldest and most widely recognized symbols in mythology. It is featured in various forms of jewelry across cultures. The snake represents eternity, loyalty, and protection. In ancient Egypt, it symbolized divinity and loyalty; in Celtic traditions, it embodied mysterious knowledge; while the Romans saw it as a guardian of life and eternal existence.
In addition to the snakes, the parrot stands as another significant symbol, representing the combination of wisdom and strength. Other elements such as the three hares, sheep, pig, and seashell pearls on the table all represent the beauty and abundance of life. The theme of the painting centers on transformation, growth, and rebirth. The serpent’s shedding of its skin is a metaphor for renewal and evolution, symbolizing hope for new beginnings and the potential for greatness. The artwork invites the viewer to reflect on the passage of time and the infinite possibilities that life holds, urging us to cherish every moment and empower all living things with meaning and beauty.
