The Chinese believed that there were five elements. The elements were water, fire, wood, metal and earth. According to the Ancient Chinese, everything in the universe was made up of these five elements and each element corresponded to a colour:Water – BlackWood – Greenish-Blue (Turquoise)Metal – WhiteEarth - YellowFire – RedConfucius said that these five colours were the superior colours and related them to benevolence, kindness and virtue. Although these colours were considered equal, more ancient peoples thought that yellow was the most superior colour, contrary to the popular belief the red was held highest throughout Chinese history. Only in The Zhou Dynasty (1122BC – 256BC) did red become the victor.

Red is the Chinese symbol of integrity. Although it was not considered the most superior colour in ancient times, red was thought to have the power to excorcize ghosts/spirits and drive away misfortune. It was also believed to bring good fortune and joy.On formal occasions (such as weddings and funerals), red lanterns, red candles and other sorts of red decorations were used. Statues of Chinese deities were covered in red paper or red cloths, as a sign of respect and worship.

People praying under red lanterns

In Chinese New Year red is everywhere. Houses are decorated in red, fire crackers are red and sometimes emit red smoke, dragon dances are red, red paper is written on and even food is red.This is because red is thought to ward off evil spirits and invite righteous spirits to enter the household. Red dragons and lions are to ‘scare’ any bad luck, and so bring in good fortune.

On the first day of Chinese New Year people wear red clothing to bring in a bright year for the wearer. People’s wishes are written on red paper and stuck outside houses throughout the New Year Festival. Writing wishes on specifically red paper is thought to make them come true. Below: The Chinese character Fù, meaning good luck. This character was written on red paper, upside down and placed in houses.

Red StringsIn the ancient Qing Dynasty, elderly people would thread coins with red string. These strings of money were called yāsuì qián, meaning ‘money warding off evil spirits’. Some historians believe this was where the Red packet idea originated from.

Red packet The Chinese Red packet (red envelope) is well known. Money is placed inside and given to someone on their birthday or other celebration. This money was also called yāsuì qián.

Red furnitureEverything in the household may not be red, but many suites were made of redwood. Redwood tables, chairs and wardrobes are also very popular.

Examples of Red packets

The colour red has been a large part of Chinese culture, both in the past and nowadays.

There are many beliefs about the power of red.

I wore red on the first day of the year, so hopefully this powerpoint will get an excellence?

By Anthony Wong 9EB

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