In Japan the lobster is a popular art motif, which seems not to have been taken from chinese examples, since it is rarely seen in the arts in China. It is a symbol of longevity commonly used at happy events such as New Year or marriage ceremonies or in connection with wishes for gifts. As such it s meant to symbolize the wish that one may live so long that one's back becomes bent like that of a lobster. As the lobster becomes red when cooked and red is the colour of vitality, the redebi symbolizes strength and vitality.