​This vintage enamel fish has deep meaning in Chinese culture:

• Abundance & Prosperity — The word for fish 鱼 (yú) is a homophone for “abundance.”

• Success & Advancement — Carp are linked to the legend of the carp leaping over the Dragon Gate, symbolizing achievement and rising in status.

• Fertility & Good Fortune — Fish are common gifts for newlyweds or new businesses.

• These are highly sought after in the vintage community and could be gifted as a necklace or attached to a belt or hung in a room to bring abundance.

• Gold plated.

Articulated versions exaggerate this symbolism: the realistic movement was believed to “animate” the blessing.