Mixed responses to Fortune Tiger lantern installation in Nantou

A new lantern installation in Nantou has ignited controversy. The “Fortune Tiger” installation was designed to ring in the Year of the Tiger, but it reminds some viewers of a cat or even a monkey.Others say it barely looks like an animal at all. But city officials are keen to defend the artwork, saying it was chosen to bring good cheer to the start of 2022.

The Year of the Tiger is drawing near and Nantou City is bedecked with a new lantern installation to ring the changes. But the “Fortune Tiger” has drawn some puzzled reactions.

Member of public
I think it looks more like a cat. It’s kind of funny.

Member of public
On first glance it looks more like a monkey, but if you look closely at its pattern, it’s more like an ironic tiger.

The tiger’s big round eyes gaze out from under a traditional official’s cap. Its right hand holds a gold ingot, its left a flag, symbolizing financial bonanzas. It’s wearing an imperial war costume, reminding many viewers of classic monkey images.

Nantou Mayor Sung Huai-lin says the design was created through discussion among city officials. After much deliberation, they wanted to throw out the serious and fierce looks of previous years, and go for a more light-hearted, fun and cheerful character.

Sung Huai-lin
Nantou mayor
I want to report that this was designed by our colleague, a designer in the city hall. I hope the public can look for its positive aspects. We’d like to please everybody.

The Fortune Tiger may have its detractors, but there are fans too. Either way, it’s brought attention to the city.