The symbol of "bird standing on a platform" on liangzhu culture jade Artifacts and the pictographic origin of the chinese character Hou (侯)

Abstract

Guangbao Liu*

The Chinese character Hou (侯), an ancient noble title, shares striking etymological and typological similarities with the swallow symbol representing feudal lords in ancient Egypt. Comparative analysis reveals that the pictographic prototype of Hou likely derives from the swallow, as evidenced by parallels between its oracle bone script form and Egyptian iconography. In Liangzhu Culture jade artifacts, the recurring motif of a "bird standing on a platform" further supports this connection. Contrary to interpretations identifying the bird as an eagle, its morphological features align more closely with a swallow. This correspondence provides ancillary evidence suggesting cultural linkages between the Liangzhu Civilization and ancient Egyptian traditions.

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