The meaning of the deer figurine
The shapes of deer ornaments are diverse, and their meanings are also slightly focused:
A running or standing deer: symbolizing “being proactive, achieving success in one’s career, and brimming with vitality”.
Looking back at the deer (the deer turning its head) : It symbolizes “good fortune and prosperity will return, and good luck is coming”, and also implies attracting important people and opportunities to come back.
Mother and son deer: one big and one small, symbolizing “deep family affection, prosperous descendants, and the passing down of happiness and honor from generation to generation”.
Deer and Ganoderma lucidum/immortal herb: An enhanced combination of “health and longevity”, with extremely auspicious meanings.
Deer and crane: Combined as “Deer and Crane in Spring” (six contracts for spring), it symbolizes that the world is full of spring, all things thrive, and wishes for longevity.
Deer and bat: Symbolizing “both happiness and prosperity” (bat sounds like “happiness” in Chinese and deer sounds like “prosperity” in Chinese).
“Passing the imperial examinations one after another” : The picture depicts a heron with a lotus and reeds. However, “heron” sounds similar to “road” in Chinese, and “lotus” sounds similar to “connection” in Chinese. Sometimes, it is also combined with a deer, symbolizing continuous success in the imperial examinations and a smooth career path.
The deer figurine embodies “wealth (official rank), health (longevity), power (nobility), and love (beauty)”, making it an elegant and profoundly meaningful mascot. Whether you hope for a prosperous career and abundant wealth, or wish your family good health, longevity and harmony, choosing a beautifully shaped deer ornament can infuse the space with beautiful wishes and cultural atmosphere.

