Talisman Culture

History, art, and cultural memory

Throughout the development of Chinese culture, talismans have been more than a distinctive form of written art: they have also carried people's hopes for a good life. For thousands of years, at important moments in life, people have used them to express wishes for peace, health, family harmony, meaningful relationships, and a life unfolding with ease. Bringing together writing, imagery, and the beauty of calligraphy, these symbols bear witness to the beliefs and aesthetics of different eras. Today, we return to them through the perspectives of culture and history, attentive to the emotions, values, and memories they preserve. Whether this is your first encounter with Eastern culture or a step toward a deeper understanding of Chinese thought and art, we hope this can be a window inviting further exploration of the history, artistry, and collections behind talisman culture.