Finding a gift for a couple is awkward. You want something that is for both of them, that looks good, and that is not another candle. One idea I have added to the club’s Etsy shop, TrackAndTrainStudio, is a pair of posters: the Dragon and Phoenix Poster Set of 2. This is why I think it works as a gift, and a few things to check before you order.
What the set is
It is two posters, a Chinese dragon and a phoenix, in teal and gold, made to hang side by side. They are printed to order and posted by our print partner, and you can choose print only or framed. The listing gives the sizes and the options, so open it for the details rather than rely on my summary.
Why a dragon and a phoenix?
In Chinese tradition the dragon and the phoenix, or Fenghuang, often go together. The dragon has long been linked with strength and the emperor, and the Fenghuang with grace and the empress. Together they became a classic image of a married couple, and they are still used at weddings. It is not about one being better than the other, but about two different things working together. I explain more in my post on dragon and phoenix in Chinese mythology.
That is why the set suits a couple’s bedroom wall, a wedding gift or an anniversary present. It means something without being heavy-handed about it.
Who it suits
- A couple setting up a home. Two matching posters look good above a bed or a sofa.
- A wedding or anniversary. The pairing is a traditional symbol for a couple.
- People who like Chinese art or mythology. It will mean more to them if they know the story.
- Martial artists with a partner who is not into training. It is a way to bring a bit of the art into the house without a punch bag in the lounge.
Choosing a size and frame
The listings offer sizes from A5 up to A1 plus common inch sizes, and you can message the shop if you need something custom. Framed prints arrive ready to hang. If the couple already have frames they like, print only in the right size will do. If you are not sure of the wall, measure it and cut paper to size before you order, which is a trick I mention in my guide to dojo wall art, and it works just as well in a living room.
Hanging a pair
A pair looks best when the two posters are the same size, hung level and with an even gap between them, a few centimetres is usually enough. Put the dragon and the phoenix side by side at the same height, and leave the same space on the outside of each. Cut two paper templates, tape them up and step back before you put any holes in the wall. If you are giving the set as a present, framed is the easier option for the person receiving it, because there is nothing left for them to buy.
If you want one rather than two
The dragon and phoenix are also sold singly. The Storm Dragon Poster shows a Chinese dragon in thunder clouds. The Misty Mountain Dragon Poster has a dragon coiled around a misty mountain, and the Teal Phoenix Poster shows the Fenghuang as a celestial bird. The phoenix hangs well alone or beside the dragon prints.
Ordering for Christmas
Because posters are printed to order, check the delivery estimate on the listing when you order, and allow for the Christmas post. I cannot promise a delivery date for you, and the listing is the place to look. If you want a gift that arrives straight away, the Martial Arts Training Log is an instant digital download, so it can go in a card on the day.
More ideas
If you are buying for someone who trains, my longer list of gifts for martial artists covers wall art, clothing, a book and more. You can also see the whole range, including the Qilin, the Mythical Beasts Trio and the centreline poster, on our Posters and Gifts page.
And if you are thinking of starting something new yourself in the new year, book your free trial class with us in Halesowen.
Sifu Alan Bagley, Wing Chun Halesowen
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