Description
Mandarin ducks are believed to form lifelong pair bonds, and are hence regarded as a symbol of love, affection and fidelity. They often feature in wedding decorations in Eastern cultures, representing wedded bliss and loving monogamy. The Chinese phrase, “yuanyang xi shui” (鸳鸯戏水) means “two mandarin ducks playing in water” and refers to an affectionate couple, whilst the Japanese phrase, “oshidori fufu” (鴛鴦夫婦) means “husband and wife mandarin ducks” and is used in the same way as the phrase “a couple of lovebirds.”
Artist's note
The plumages of male and female mandarin ducks are very different, leading to the Chinese term for mandarin ducks, yuanyang (鸳鸯), frequently being used colloquially to mean an "odd couple" or an "unlikely pair"...much like my wife and myself, with my colourful "plumage" compared to her lack of tattoos! Yet, despite outward appearances, fidelity, affection and love remain true.
Details
A pair of mandarin ducks.
Dimensions: approximately 110mm H x 80mm W for the male duck and 110mm H x 94mm W for the female duck.
Total thread: 296.7m
Stitch count: 56119
Backing card size: A5