Chinese Elephant Statues

Elephants in Chinese culture are entirely positive creatures. They are symbolic of good luck, strength, patience, wisdom, and peace, representations that are likely borrowed from Indian culture, brought to China along with Buddhism. Owing to elephant family behavior, elephants in Asian cultures also represent loyalty, benevolence, and fidelity.

The character for elephant in Chinese is the same as that which describes things to come. As a result, elephant statues are also often created as an object of hope. The pairing of the elephant image with stone creates a pun that represents strength, whereas an elephant holding a vase represents hope for peace. These depictions of elephants are popular gifts and household objects in order to bring good fortune to their owners. A young elephant rider is also a common symbol for good luck.

Quick Facts

• An elephant with a raised trunk represents victory, whereas one with a lowered trunk represents longevity
• Chinese elephant statues are often placed in pairs at the front of a home, facing outward in order to bring protection and peace to the home. Ideally this elephant is standing on its hind legs with its trunk raised
• The rare white elephant is revered as the purest form and believed to be a future reincarnation of Buddha