s of rugs, it is vastly interesting
to understand the meaning attached to these symbols by the Orientals.
Every one is familiar with the tree design in some of its various forms,
and with the stiff little birds and the many odd and strange-looking
animals which frequently are seen on an Eastern fabric of the loom. Yet
each unique figure has a meaning, and it is a fascinating, as well as an
apparently endless task, to find the hidden significance of these
symbols. If one goes no further, he should at least become familiar with
the designs on his own rugs, and know, if possible, what they typify.

The rug itself symbolizes Eternity and Space, and the filling or plan is
the symbol of the world--beautiful, but fleeting and limited.

[Illustration: ANTIQUE PERSIAN RUG

_This rug dates from about 1500 A. D., and is of wool, with animal and
floral forms._

FROM A PHOTOGRAPH LOANED BY DR. BODE, OF BERLIN.]

CHINESE SYMBOLS

BAT _Happiness._

BUDDHIST SCEPTRE _Success in literary
labors._

CHI-LIN (a kind of doe) _Nobleness; gentleness._

CLOUD-BAND _The Deity._

COCK AND HEN ON AN ARTIFICIAL ROCK-WORK _Pleasures of country
life._

CRANE _Immortality._

CROW _Evil._

DEER _Official emolument._

DRAGON _The imperial emblem,
signifying increase and
imperial grandeur._

DRAGON WITH FIVE CLAWS ON EACH OF ITS FOUR FEET _Exclusive emblem of the
Emperor._

DRAGON AND PHOENIX _Newly wedded pair._

DUCK _Conjugal affection._

GOOSE _Domestic felicity._

GOURD _Happiness._

LION _Victory._

MAGPIE _Good luck._

OLD MAN LEANING ON A STAFF _Long life._

OWL