Chinese culture, explained from Chinese sourcesHow we verify
Symbols of China读懂中国

Visual identification tool

What did you see?

Choose the visible subject, its companions and where it appeared. The finder suggests possible readings—it does not authenticate or date an object.

1 Start with the main subject
2 Choose the closest match

Select a subject group first.

3 Add context if you know it

Research notes

Possible readings

Your results will appear here. A companion object can change the reading, so include one when you can.

How to use the result

A symbol is not a timeless label.

The same bat, flower or vessel can carry different associations in different periods and settings. Treat the first result as a route into the evidence, not as a certificate.

For a better reading, look at the whole group, the object it decorates, its date and where it was used. Each result links to a sourced guide that explains those limits.

Currently supported

Browse the visual index