In China, it was appropriate for bridal attire and furnishings to be embellished with imperial symbols. The phoenix, which represents the empress, and the dragon, representing the emperor, here symbolize the bride and groom, the balance between masculine and feminine, and the yin and yang.

A number of auspicious Buddhist and Daoist symbols are depicted here: clouds symbolize good fortune and happiness; bats represent blessings, happiness and good fortune; paired fish symbolize the union of happiness; roses (at each end) are considered flowers of lasting springtime; peaches (in center) represent long life.