Drawings on carved vases have different meanings according to Asian tradition.
Fish is a symbol of abundance, as the sound of fish (yu) is the same as abundance, while lotus is a symbol of purity and untainted mind in the East Wisdom Tradition. A lotus flower grows out of a muddy water, yet its purity and brilliant beauty remain untouched.
Both fish and lotus serve as a reminder to remain untouched and untainted under all circumstances.
