Chinese Three Wise Men

Relationship: Child of im/migrant

My object ,or in this case objects, are ceramic figures of the Chinese Feng Shui Gods of Wealth known as the Three Wise Men. From left to right is FuK, LuK, and Sau. This is the order they should always be in when placed in one's household. These figures were given to my family when my Uncle came to the United States when I was born in the year 2000. Fuk, the left most god, represents blessings of luck as well as good health. He is depicted as holding a scroll in this figure to show the importance of knowledge. Luk, the figure in the middle, is symbolic of stability in life and financial success. Sau, the one on the right, is depicted as an old man to depict longevity.

Beyond their own symbolic meaning, these three figures represent something else to my family. It is a reminder of our connection to China and Chinese culture in a foreign land. It is a symbol of the driving force that lead my family to leave China behind, along with their stable jobs, some possessions, and their closest friends to come to the United States. All so I could be successful, and live a long,happy, and successful life. Every time I see these figures I can't help but to feel a sense of gratitude for my family's sacrifice for me.

Place(s): China
Year: 1987

– Timothy Lau

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant