Red

The Chinese consider red to be a life-giving color, associated with summer, the south and the vermilion bird that represents the element fire and the period of maximum yang. Red is the color of fu, and is used as a wish to summon happiness, blessings and good fortune. The color of red enhances the “good luck” of any object on which it is used. Auspicious objects such as chopsticks, peonies and hibiscus which are recognizable by their shape but are not naturally red may be portrayed as red and thus symbolize the auspicious wishes associated with of fu. In masks red represents positive virtues of loyalty, heroism, and courage. Red is also the color of the goddess Shakti who personifies divine feminine creative power and creation.