These symbols are sometimes, as we have seen, used as marks. But they are also used in decoration, being coloured in enamel colours and often placed in shaped reserves. The number eight seems to have an attraction for the Chinese. Here we have what are termed "the eight precious things," and, later, the Buddhist emblems, "the eight lucky emblems," are given. It is not necessary to do more than name these ordinary symbols:—
No. 1. A pearl.
No. 2. A coin, symbol of riches, often forms a border to plates and dishes.
No. 3. Lozenge with open frame. Two lozenges with overlapping ends are used to express the dual symbol.
No. 4. A mirror.
No. 5. A sounding-plate used as a bell.
No. 6. Books placed close together, probably another dual symbol.
No. 7. Rhinoceros horns—conventional form.
No. 8. A leaf.
Some or all of these objects may frequently be seen carried in processions or on pictures of such processions.