While the peacock may represent arrogance in some parts of Western culture — to peacock means to show off — in Chinese culture, it has a very different meaning. Here are five fun facts about this beautiful bird.

The peacock was believed to be an earthly version of the phoenix

The mythical phoenix, or fenghuang in Mandarin Chinese, not only lived forever: seeing one predicted a harmonious reign under a new emperor. It's also believed to represent harmony, containing both male and female attributes. That's why you'll often see it in wedding clothing, bedding, and decor. The peacock was believed to be the phoenix's mundane manifestation.

The peacock is one of the 12 Symbols of Sovereignty

Starting during the Western Zhou Dynasty (1046 to 256 BCE), the 12 Symbols of Sovereignty or 12 Ornaments appeared on the emperor's festival robes. Representing imperial rank, the symbols are the sun, moon, constellation of three stars (possibly the Big Dipper), mountain, dragon, peacock or pheasant (also thought to be a mortal form of the phoenix), two goblets, seaweed, grain, fire, ax head, and the fu or good fortune character.

The peacock was a symbol of the Ming Dynasty

Ruling from 1368 to 1644, the Ming Dynasty was symbolized by the peacock. In turn, the bird represented divinity, rank, power, and beauty. You can see it in this civil official's medallion, this festival robe, and this blue and white porcelain dish, all from the Ming Dynasty.

The peacock is associated with the Goddess of Mercy

The Goddess of Mercy or Guan Yin is a Buddhist deity. A symbol of compassion, her name translates as "one who hears the cries of the world." She has several depictions, including one with a thousand arms and 11 heads — the better to understand the needs of so many. 

The 100 eyes of the peacock tail might be analogous to this. So in this way the bird stands for protection and good fortune.

The Peacock Dance is a traditional Chinese folk dance

The Dai people are an ethnic minority in Yunnan, China's most southwestern province. Records of a Peacock Dance performed for the emperor first appeared during the Eastern Han Dynasty (25 to 220 AD). Different variations of the dance can be performed by one person, two, or groups of four or more, while the movements imitate those of the peacock.