One of the most commonly seen figures at Bukit Brown is the stone lion, typically placed in male-female pairs at the entrance of tombs. The male lion is often depicted with a paw resting on a ball (representing the world or power), and the female restraining a cub (symbolizing nurture and continuity)︎︎︎. Another distinctive feature is the presence of Indian guards︎︎︎, often sculpted in military dress with long beards and turbans. Beyond human figures, the tombs are richly decorated with mythological creatures imbued with symbolic meanings. Together, these carvings form a protective and auspicious landscape, honouring the deceased while reflecting the beliefs and values of their community.
Below are some examples of decorative carved imagery exhibited within the Sounds of the Earth and their symbolism:
Below are some examples of decorative carved imagery exhibited within the Sounds of the Earth and their symbolism:
︎Examples of the Mythical Beast Qilin (麒麟)
ARTEFACT NO. 32︎︎︎, Stone Imagery of Qilin and Pair of Herons︎︎︎
The Qilin stands out for both its artistry and its layered meaning. The Qilin is a mythical creature from Chinese folklore – part dragon, part deer, often with the hooves of a horse and the tail of an ox, it is considered one of the Four Great Mythical Creatures of China (alongside the dragon, phoenix and tortoise).
In traditional Chinese iconography, the Qilin is known as a gentle beast that represents auspiciousness, benevolence and goodwill. These characteristics make the qilin a creature symbolic of protection and good fortune in its appearance in funerary art. Its appearance on a tombstone indicates that the deceased individual(s) was regarded with deep respect, and/or that their family members wished to convey virtues such as benevolence, righteousness, and harmony towards their elder(s). The presence of the qilin can be further read as a wish for peace, both for the deceased individual(s) in the afterlife and the descendants in the living.
The carvings in ARTEFACTS NO. 32︎︎︎, 62︎︎︎ and 64︎︎︎ show the Qilin in mid-motion, with a windswept mane and intricately carved scales.
The Qilin stands out for both its artistry and its layered meaning. The Qilin is a mythical creature from Chinese folklore – part dragon, part deer, often with the hooves of a horse and the tail of an ox, it is considered one of the Four Great Mythical Creatures of China (alongside the dragon, phoenix and tortoise).
In traditional Chinese iconography, the Qilin is known as a gentle beast that represents auspiciousness, benevolence and goodwill. These characteristics make the qilin a creature symbolic of protection and good fortune in its appearance in funerary art. Its appearance on a tombstone indicates that the deceased individual(s) was regarded with deep respect, and/or that their family members wished to convey virtues such as benevolence, righteousness, and harmony towards their elder(s). The presence of the qilin can be further read as a wish for peace, both for the deceased individual(s) in the afterlife and the descendants in the living.
︎Examples of Dragon
Close-Up Image of Twin-Dragons Imagery found at Top-Most Portion ARTEFACT NO. 58︎︎︎, Example of Hokkien-Style Tomb Headstone
At the crown of this Hokkien-style tombstone, a pair of dragons face each other in a dynamic composition, carved directly onto the headstone’s uppermost portion. In Chinese tradition, dragons embody power, virility, and the elemental forces of water and weather. Their composite form combines the body of a snake, the head of a camel, eagle claws, and a lion’s mane, drawing from the strengths of multiple creatures.
Often depicted chasing or cradling a celestial pearl, as seen here, the dragons symbolise the pursuit of wisdom, prosperity, and cosmic balance. The pearl itself represents enlightenment, wealth, and sometimes the moon. Positioned prominently atop the tombstone, this motif underscores the deceased’s aspiration for continued protection and auspicious fortune, even in the afterlife.
In ARTEFACT NO. 32︎︎︎, a pair of herons (or cranes) (鹤) flank the Qilin. In Chinese culture, the heron is a revered symbol, known as the patriarch of the birds, and the celestial mount of the immortals. In funerary contexts, cranes are believed to carry the souls of the departed to the “Western Heaven,” offering safe passage to the afterlife. Their image frequently appears in funerary art for this reason.
Beyond its association with transcendence, the crane is also a powerful emblem of longevity, often depicted under pine trees, another symbol of enduring life. The bird’s elegant form, with outspread wings and an uplifted foot, signifies grace and spiritual elevation. Historically, the crane’s image was also used on the court robes of fourth-rank civil officials, marking it as a symbol of high status and scholarly virtue.
The phoenix (凤), as depicted in ARTEFACTS NO. 57︎︎︎ and 59︎︎︎, surrounded by blooming peonies, is another powerful symbol in Chinese funerary art, embodying themes of renewal, virtue, and high status. Its presence on tombs signifies wishes for harmony, prosperity, and the continuity of familial honour. The phoenix’s cyclical rebirth from ashes resonates with hopes for spiritual transcendence and the enduring legacy of the deceased’s virtues.
At the crown of this Hokkien-style tombstone, a pair of dragons face each other in a dynamic composition, carved directly onto the headstone’s uppermost portion. In Chinese tradition, dragons embody power, virility, and the elemental forces of water and weather. Their composite form combines the body of a snake, the head of a camel, eagle claws, and a lion’s mane, drawing from the strengths of multiple creatures.
Often depicted chasing or cradling a celestial pearl, as seen here, the dragons symbolise the pursuit of wisdom, prosperity, and cosmic balance. The pearl itself represents enlightenment, wealth, and sometimes the moon. Positioned prominently atop the tombstone, this motif underscores the deceased’s aspiration for continued protection and auspicious fortune, even in the afterlife.
︎Examples of Birds
In ARTEFACT NO. 32︎︎︎, a pair of herons (or cranes) (鹤) flank the Qilin. In Chinese culture, the heron is a revered symbol, known as the patriarch of the birds, and the celestial mount of the immortals. In funerary contexts, cranes are believed to carry the souls of the departed to the “Western Heaven,” offering safe passage to the afterlife. Their image frequently appears in funerary art for this reason.
Beyond its association with transcendence, the crane is also a powerful emblem of longevity, often depicted under pine trees, another symbol of enduring life. The bird’s elegant form, with outspread wings and an uplifted foot, signifies grace and spiritual elevation. Historically, the crane’s image was also used on the court robes of fourth-rank civil officials, marking it as a symbol of high status and scholarly virtue.
The phoenix (凤), as depicted in ARTEFACTS NO. 57︎︎︎ and 59︎︎︎, surrounded by blooming peonies, is another powerful symbol in Chinese funerary art, embodying themes of renewal, virtue, and high status. Its presence on tombs signifies wishes for harmony, prosperity, and the continuity of familial honour. The phoenix’s cyclical rebirth from ashes resonates with hopes for spiritual transcendence and the enduring legacy of the deceased’s virtues.
︎Examples of Flowers
ARTEFACTS NO. 57︎︎︎ and 59︎︎︎, Pair of Two Decorated Tomb Shoulders with Flowers and Phoenixes
ARTEFACTS NO. 57︎︎︎ and 59︎︎︎ are tomb shoulders flanking the main headstone, Tombstone ARTEFACT NO. 58︎︎︎. Both are adorned with large peony blooms emerging from vases, entwined with curling leaves and vines. In Chinese symbolism, the peony, often called the “king of flowers” - represents wealth, beauty, and honour. Its presence on tombs reflects wishes for continued prosperity and familial respect, adding layers of meaning to the grave beyond mere decoration.
At the upper corners of these panels, peonies are paired with chrysanthemums, further enriching the symbolism. While the peony signifies prosperity and feminine grace, the chrysanthemum embodies endurance and integrity. Together, these floral motifs convey messages of hope, remembrance, and the enduring virtues cherished by the family.
ARTEFACTS NO. 57︎︎︎ and 59︎︎︎ are tomb shoulders flanking the main headstone, Tombstone ARTEFACT NO. 58︎︎︎. Both are adorned with large peony blooms emerging from vases, entwined with curling leaves and vines. In Chinese symbolism, the peony, often called the “king of flowers” - represents wealth, beauty, and honour. Its presence on tombs reflects wishes for continued prosperity and familial respect, adding layers of meaning to the grave beyond mere decoration.
At the upper corners of these panels, peonies are paired with chrysanthemums, further enriching the symbolism. While the peony signifies prosperity and feminine grace, the chrysanthemum embodies endurance and integrity. Together, these floral motifs convey messages of hope, remembrance, and the enduring virtues cherished by the family.
︎Examples of Gourds (Bottles)
ARTEFACTS NO. 31︎︎︎ and 78︎︎︎, Stone Panels Depicting Magical Gourds / Bottles
The appearance of Bottle Gourds, as seen here in ARTEFACTS NO. 31︎︎︎ and 78︎︎︎, are linked to protection, long life, and spiritual power in Chinese culture. Once used as a practical container for medicine and water, the gourd’s shape is also represented in the form of sign-boards in front of Chinese apothecaries. In funerary art, gourds take on deeper spiritual meaning. They are closely linked to Taoist beliefs, often associated with the immortal Li Tieguai, who used his gourd to release his spirit and dispel evil. Gourd motifs carved on tomb elements, as seen here, express hopes for the deceased’s peaceful passage and serve as talismans safeguarding the tomb space.
Some decorated stone panels also feature finely detailed human figures representing scenes from Chinese folklore or classic literature. These stories often illustrate moral virtues such as filial piety, loyalty, and harmony within the family—all key Confucian values. The positioning of multiple figures, often in acts of presentation or reverence, may also reflect generational continuity and the honouring of ancestors.
The appearance of Bottle Gourds, as seen here in ARTEFACTS NO. 31︎︎︎ and 78︎︎︎, are linked to protection, long life, and spiritual power in Chinese culture. Once used as a practical container for medicine and water, the gourd’s shape is also represented in the form of sign-boards in front of Chinese apothecaries. In funerary art, gourds take on deeper spiritual meaning. They are closely linked to Taoist beliefs, often associated with the immortal Li Tieguai, who used his gourd to release his spirit and dispel evil. Gourd motifs carved on tomb elements, as seen here, express hopes for the deceased’s peaceful passage and serve as talismans safeguarding the tomb space.
︎Tales from Chinese Legends, Mythology and Literature
Some decorated stone panels also feature finely detailed human figures representing scenes from Chinese folklore or classic literature. These stories often illustrate moral virtues such as filial piety, loyalty, and harmony within the family—all key Confucian values. The positioning of multiple figures, often in acts of presentation or reverence, may also reflect generational continuity and the honouring of ancestors.
ARTEFACT NO. 36︎︎︎, Stone Panel Depicting Scene from “Madame White Snake” (白蛇传)
This carved panel likely depicts a scene from the legend of “Madame White Snake” (白蛇传), a tale deeply rooted in Chinese folklore. The story revolves around Bai Suzhen (figure on the boat with 2 swords), a white snake spirit who transforms into a woman and falls in love with a human scholar, Xu Xian (许仙). In this stone panel, Bai Suzhen is attempting to rescue Xu Xian from the monk Fai Ha (法海), held in Jinshan Temple (金山寺) with the help of creatures from the sea.
Their love defies social norms and cosmic boundaries, embodying themes of devotion, protection, and sacrifice. In funerary art, such narrative scenes resonate with the virtues of love, loyalty, and the triumph of good intentions over societal prejudice. The depiction of Bai Suzhen shielding her family from danger, even as external forces threaten to tear them apart, symbolizes unwavering affection and the protective nature of familial bonds. The boat in the scene often symbolises a journey, in funerary context, it may suggest the passage of the soul, with loved ones offering guidance and shelter.
By including this motif on a tomb, the message becomes twofold: a remembrance of personal virtues - love, care, and resilience, and a broader reminder of the constant tension between human emotion and the rigid structures of duty and tradition. The visual storytelling invites viewers to reflect on compassion as an enduring legacy, much like Bai Suzhen’s undying love defined her own otherworldly nature.
This carved panel likely depicts a scene from the legend of “Madame White Snake” (白蛇传), a tale deeply rooted in Chinese folklore. The story revolves around Bai Suzhen (figure on the boat with 2 swords), a white snake spirit who transforms into a woman and falls in love with a human scholar, Xu Xian (许仙). In this stone panel, Bai Suzhen is attempting to rescue Xu Xian from the monk Fai Ha (法海), held in Jinshan Temple (金山寺) with the help of creatures from the sea.
Their love defies social norms and cosmic boundaries, embodying themes of devotion, protection, and sacrifice. In funerary art, such narrative scenes resonate with the virtues of love, loyalty, and the triumph of good intentions over societal prejudice. The depiction of Bai Suzhen shielding her family from danger, even as external forces threaten to tear them apart, symbolizes unwavering affection and the protective nature of familial bonds. The boat in the scene often symbolises a journey, in funerary context, it may suggest the passage of the soul, with loved ones offering guidance and shelter.
By including this motif on a tomb, the message becomes twofold: a remembrance of personal virtues - love, care, and resilience, and a broader reminder of the constant tension between human emotion and the rigid structures of duty and tradition. The visual storytelling invites viewers to reflect on compassion as an enduring legacy, much like Bai Suzhen’s undying love defined her own otherworldly nature.