Pi Xiu – Jade

*Pixiu, is a Chinese mythical hybrid creature, commonly (but incorrectly) referred to in the west by the Greek word “chimera”, and considered a powerful protector of practitioners of Feng Shui. It resembles a strong, winged lion. Pixiu is an earth and sea variation particulary an influential and auspicious creature for wealth. It is said to have a voracious appetite towards only gold, silver and jewels. Another story says that Pixiu was the well-behaved, youngest son of the Dragon King and was spoiled by its parents. One day, Pixiu was playing on the Dragon King’s desk and accidentally broke a very important seal that represented the power of the Dragon King. The Dragon King became very angry and used magic to turn Pixiu into an animal. He then sealed his rectum and declared that from then on, Pixiu could only eat things represented wealth, such as gold, silver and jewels. Pixiu are type of ancient mythological, guardian animal species that have drogon-headed, lion-bodied, feathered wings. Pixiu were traditionally depicted in China as a male-female pair, one with a single antler (Pi皮) is the male of the species and is called “Tian Lu, the one with two antlers (Xiu休) is the female of the species and is called a “Bixie”.
“Bixie”-The female of the species; wards off evil. It is also believed that Bixie has the ability of assisting anyone who is suffering from bad Feng Shui that is due to having offended the Grand Duke Jupiter (also called Tai Sui太岁).
“Than Lu”-The male of the species, in charge of wealth. Tian Lu is said to go out the world in search of gold and other forms of wealth, and bringing it home to its master, the Bixie is then said to hold onto it, guarding it within the home of the Master. Looking at the posture of Pixiu, the creatures seem to project a sense of strength, elegance and mobility. Likewise, they have a big opened mouth ready to gobble up gold fortunes for its master. Because of this, Pixiu statue is often employed in the home as a way of receiving end keeping fortunes and wealth.Therefore, traditionally to the Chinese, Pixiu have always been regarded as auspicious creatures that possessed mystical powers capable of drawing CAI Qi (wealth财气) from all directions. Because of this, according to Chinese zodiac, it is especially helpful for those who are going through a bad year.

*Source: WIKIPEDIA