Beijing 2008 Olympic Scarf

The swirling cloudlike pattern on this silk scarf from the Beijing 2008 Olympics, was a big part of the visual story of those Games. The design references three elements of Chinese culture: ruyi, a symbol of happiness, power, and peace; a Chinese ribbon, to connect the world; and auspicious clouds.

Auspicious clouds are one of the most well-known patterns in Chinese art, representing good fortune and promise. In the Beijing 2008 Games, the image of clouds was used in the Olympic Torch and the official uniform of Chinese athletes. All three elements — ruyi, Chinese ribbon and auspicious clouds — come together in this scarf’s pattern to represent China’s best wishes for the world.