瑚琏之器 — “Vessels of Húliǎn (ancient ritual vessels)”

During the Spring and Autumn period, Zigong, a disciple of Confucius, was originally a wealthy merchant from the State of Wey. His given name was Ci. Because he had money, he often wore luxurious clothing.

Confucius, disapproving of his trendy ways, once remarked that a gentleman is not a mere 'utensil' (君子不器), implying that a gentleman should not be confined to a specific function.

Feeling pleased with himself, Zigong asked Confucius what kind of 'utensil' he was. Confucius casually replied, 'a vessel of Húliǎn' (瑚琏之器), referring to the precious ritual vessels used for ancestral worship.

Zigong became even more elated, unaware that Confucius was subtly hinting at his inner emptiness, much like a beautiful but hollow ceremonial vessel.