P1040725b

W250xH420mm, China

The two figures in this wood block print is the poet monks Han Shan and Shi Di.  Han Shan and Shi Di are close friends, sharing ideas on poetry, zen teaching as well as literature.  The 2 are known as the He He saints – for love, peace and harmony.

Shi Di (left) carried a stem of lotus “荷 – He” while Han Shan (right) has a rounded box “盒 – He”.  The words 荷盒 “He He” has the same pronunciation as the words 和合 “He He” which has the meaning peaceful harmony.

At the wedding night, offering will be made by the bride and groom to the He He immortals for love, peace and harmony to be extended to the new family.

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