The Chinese celebrated the pine, bamboo and plum together, as they observed that these plants do not wither as the cold days deepen in the winter season, unlike many other plants. Known by the Chinese as the Three Friends of Winter, together they symbolize steadfastness, perseverance, and resilience.
image: Zhao Mengjian (趙孟堅, ca.1199-1264)
National Palace Museum, Taipei