The ox is the second animal in the Chinese zodiac and is considered a symbol of resilience and a bountiful harvest. Because of its widespread use in agriculture, people shied away from eating beef in traditional Chinese culture--a habit that many still practice today.
Tsai Hung-lin's "Spring Greetings" captures the meaning of the ox with a portrayal of the god of fortune bringing wealth to people on the back of a Taiwanese buffalo. Known for his oil paintings and prints, Tsai used a traditional woodcut print technique to represent a family celebrating their good harvest and receiving gold--a wish that still exists during this time of economic downturn. Coincidentally, the ox also represents wealth for investors in the Western world, for the term "bull market" refers to a period in which prices are rising.
The Lunar New Year used to be a time when postmen were busy delivering salutation cards to homes across Taiwan, but with the advent of the Internet and cell phones, traditional paper cards have been replaced by the more instantaneous gratification of electronic greetings. Graphic artist Kuo Tzu-min's planographic print, "A Brief Spring-greeting Message," portrays a cell phone with a new year twist.
The phone displays the Chinese character for congratulations on its screen, with the dial-pad featuring the 12 Chinese zodiac signs--rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, chicken, dog and pig. The combination of a hi-tech gadget and traditional Chinese culture won Kuo rave reviews from the judges in the competition.
Historically, the ox is seldom linked with technology, since the creature is large in size and moves at a slow pace. For example, "ox steps" are often used to describe a state of inefficiency. But nowadays, "ox-like" may refer to people who are capable of withstanding great pressure.
Shi Wan-yi's silk-screen print, "The Ox as the Host," presents a joyful banquet attended by the 12 animals that make up the Chinese horoscope. The artist's feast scenario sparks one's curiosity as to what may be on the table for them, and also poses the question whether they should prepare beef for the year-end feast.
Despite making a regular appearance on dining tables in modern times, beef is still considered one of the most precious of ritual offerings to the gods and ancestors. As the ox is considered by the rural classes to be a useful companion in the fields, only the elite are able to place plates of its flesh on altars as an offering to gods and ancestors.
In addition, the blood of an ox is also considered sacred, and an integral part of sacrifice rituals. Spilled over bronze bells as a way of cleansing the instruments before they were rung, it was believed that without the substance, the gods would not be able to hear their tolling. Ox blood was also smeared across the mouths of kings as a sign of their commitment to alliances and pacts.
Zheng Xiang's woodblock print features an ox with one eye open and the other half-closed, which in Chinese culture means one should not take everything so seriously. The fish appearing on the beast's body represents the concept of "surplus" and are an auspicious sign. At the bottom of the piece are two oranges, which indicate "good luck."
Just as the ox in Zheng's painting appears to exude a gentle and patient aura, people of this animal sign are also believed to exhibit such traits. According to the Chinese horoscope, "ox people" are steady, careful, and never take action in haste. Despite an easygoing appearance, they have a strong belief in themselves and are seldom influenced by others' opinions. Renowned for a steadfast adherence to plans, this quality may also be interpreted as stubbornness in some circumstances. Such qualities make "oxen" successful entrepreneurs and political leaders. Famous examples include U.S. President Barack Obama, former U.S. President Richard Nixon, French military and political leader Napoleon Bonaparte and actor George Clooney.
Write to Amber Wu at amber0207@mail.gio.gov.tw