Stylized Shou Character, c. 1800, 8 3/8 x 6 3/4 x 5 1/2 in. (21.27 x 17.15 x 13.97 cm), Steamed bamboo, China, 18th-19th century, Beginning in the late Ming dynasty, the Chinese character for longevity, pronounced shou, became a common auspicious symbol. It was written as a large single character on hanging scrolls, embroidered on clothing, painted on porcelain, and even decorated birthday presents. To the literati, advanced age meant wisdom, accomplishment, refined sensibilities, determination, and endurance. This rather bizarre object, made for the scholar's table from a convoluted piece of bamboo, approximates the shape of the shou character.