Arriving back from China, the idea of Feng Shui (pronounced fung shway) décor piqued my interest. Our tour guide spoke about it and about the yin and yang, instituted by Chu Hsi (Zhu Xi, October 18, 1120-April 23, 1200).
It’s believed all books on the subject of Feng Shui were burned during the Qin dynasty (from 221 to 206 BCE -- not to be confused with the Qing dynasty, the last Imperial Dynasty of China.) The Qin Dynasty also produced a wall on the northern border known as the Great Wall of China.
Peaceful surroundings evoke serenity. We’ve all experienced the calming of a beautiful garden or tranquil brook. Décor can have the same effect.
To introduce Feng Shui to your home, first clear the clutter. A flow of space is vital. Feng Shui is related to nature (the words literally mean wind, which carries energy, symbolizing nature’s change and transformation, and water, which holds energy, symbolizing stability). It’s said the color blue should be incorporated in each room. Whether wind, blue or water, elements can be embodied in your décor with a painting, decorative piece or even a fish (a blue one of course.)
Below are a few suggestions to add to your interior decoration:
A Ba Gua mirror with 8 trigrams. Hang the mirror on the outside of a doorway. The concave mirror is thought to reverse negative energy. The mirror is 4 1/4 inches in diameter including the wooden painted frame. The mirror is a concave metal material (not glass) and the frame has a eye hook on the top, ready to hang! Made in China. Boxed with short explanation cards.
A squat vase is unique for its coloration, shape and design motif. It will complement any collection of blue and white porcelain and can make a statement standing on its own. The short vase is perfect for end tables or wide window sills because it will add a design element without blocking sight lines. The coloration is a deep rich blue against an antique tinted body. The final over glaze used for this piece has an aqua tinting to give it a look of 17th century pieces. tall, 7" wide with an opening diameter of 3.5" and a base diameter of 4.75". If placing the low flower vase on a stand a 5" stand is recommended.
A classic oriental wall fan handcrafted in bamboo and handpainted on heavy paper. Oriental fans have a history of two thousand years in ancient China. Chinese people also believe fans are good for Feng Shui.
Happy redecorating!