QING DYNASTY (1644-1911) OR EARLIER

Deer have a number of auspicious meanings in Chinese culture. Shoulao, the Star God of Longevity, is usually depicted accompanied by a spotted deer, as well as with a crane, peach and pine tree. Thus each of these, including the deer, has come to represent long life. Deer are also believed to be the only animals that can find the lingzhi fungus of immortality. In addition, deer may represent Luxing, the God of Rank and Emolument. The Chinese word for ‘deer’, lu, is a pun for ‘emolument’ or an official salary.