"Auspicious Ox" Designed by Stephanie Tsao

The Chinese character for ox is pronounced niú. According to Chinese legends, in times of turmoil, the ox refuses to be intimated and walks with its head held high. Through the strength of will, diligence, and perseverance, the ox will restore order in the new year.

The colors and symbols on the Happy Year of the Ox were selected for their auspicious meanings in Chinese culture. The color red represents good fortune and joy. The color gold and the circular symbols on the ox's knees representing traditional Chinese coins signify wealth and prosperity. The plum blossoms, peonies, and clouds adorned on the ox and the pattern on the ox's hooves are a nod to a long lineage of Chinese artistic expression. The symbols represent many blessings including good luck, power, beauty, and success. Because plum blossoms bloom in cold winters and are the first flowers of the year, they also represent perseverance and renewal.

On the front of the ox, the eternity knot is an ancient auspicious symbol representing the interconnectedness of the universe. It reminds us to let go of challenging situations and see differing perspectives in a new light. Scribed above the eternity knot is the Chinese character for good luck, pronounced fú. The character is written upside down because the character for upside down is the homonym of arrive, pronounced dào. Placing good luck upside down means good luck is arriving.

This Ox was sponsored by ICBC Bank with net proceeds benefiting Chinatown Community Children's Center.

Statue Details

• Approximately 5.5' x 6' x 3'
• Weighs 150 pounds
• Made of high density foam and fiberglass

Shipping & Delivery

• Base is not included.
• Additional shipping & handling fees apply. Insurance is available upon request.
• Payment must be received in full before making delivery arrangements. Please make check payable to SF Chinese Chamber of Commerce (730 Sacramento St. San Francisco, CA 94108)
• No returns, refunds, or exchanges.