Among all birds, few can match the peacock for it’s majestic beauty when it decides to display it’s colorful feathers.
They are most famed for the male’s mating dance to seduce a female where it spreads it’s gown-like plummage like a Chinese fan.
It’s just a shame that when peacocks make their way into out living rooms for display, they usually come in the form of… just tail feathers.
This has also led to many love hunters to carry peacock feathers with them to attract relationship luck.
It’s not that you could keep a peacock at home like a house pet. But they could be brought into our living spaces through paintings, artwork, and designs on houseware.
Because the motivation of male peacocks to start their attention-seeking performances come from the desire to breed, the big bird is strongly associated with love and fame.
It symbolizes dignified beauty. And a humble all-conquering strength from within.
It is also known to be able to deter evil. But that is probably because of how much it can resemble a rooster.
Because of it’s appearance, especially with it’s luscious tail, the peacock is often known as the earthly manifestation of the celestial phoenix. You would be able to observe why when you see pictures of both birds side by side.
Thus, feng shui masters can sometimes suggest images of peacocks in the house to call on the mystical power of the phoenix.
Like the phoenix, the peacock has many other connotations other than it’s primary nature.
It can also be a strong symbol to call on prosperity, protection, and good luck in general.
Culture
The goddess of mercy is sometimes depicted with a peacock. The “eyes” on the tail are said to be how she watches over the animal kingdom.
The feathers would spread out from behind her representing the 100 eyes she mentioned.
In traditional designs, it is often paired with the peony to add a touch of nobility and riches to the symbolism of the infamous plant.
The eye on each peacock feather also symbolizes self-awareness, looking within, and personal growth.
They are therefore commonly used for spirituality activities.
During ancient times, some armies used peacock feathers to denote rank among the commanders. For example, it was on the insignia of third rank during the Qing dynasty.
It’s no surprise that the aspects of wealth and rank are attached to the magnificent bird as well.
When displayed with a vase and coral, it means a wish for promotion among officials.
There is also a story of a commander’s beautiful daughter painting a peacock on a screen, and promises to marry the man who hits two arrows on target while running. The Emperor of Tang dynasty achieved the feat. This led to the verse que ping zhong xuan (雀屏中選) which refers to “hitting the peacock screen” as a metaphor for choosing a husband.
Because of it’s relation to fame and love, they are suitable to be placed in the south and southwest corners of the house.
However, they are not recommended or bedrooms. Keeping them in common spaces like the living room is suggested.
Finally, one must be aware that if real peacock feathers are used as decorative items, they should be positioned upside down.
