The auspicious case of a magpie climbing a plum tree

Plum blossom is one of the traditional auspicious patterns in China. Plum blossom is the messenger of spring, and magpie is a symbol of good luck. According to Han folklore, all magpies will fly to Tianhe on Tanabata, and build a magpie bridge to meet the cowherd and weaver girl. Therefore, the magpie's landing on the plum tree symbolizes auspiciousness, jubilation and good luck. Chinese painting works include: The Magpie Climbs the Plum by Qi Baishi, The Red Plum Magpie by Xu Beihong and The Magpie Noisy the Plum by Zhu Xuanxian.