Some common design elements of a Taoist altar are:
1. Incense burner: It represents the importance of burning incense to honor the ancestors and deities.
2. Statues or images of deities: Different Taoist deities are represented with statues or images placed in prominent positions on the altar.
3. Offerings: Food, fruits, candles, flowers, and other items are offered daily to the deities placed on the altar.
4. Red fabric: Red is a sacred color in Taoism, and it is commonly used to drape the altar or hang behind the statue.
5. Ritual objects: Various ritual objects such as bells, drums, swords, and censers are also placed on the altar, representing their significance in Chinese spiritual practices.
6. Scriptures: Scriptures such as the Tao Te Ching may be placed on the altar, representing the importance of spiritual teachings in daily life.
7. Yin-yang symbol: It represents the balance of opposite forces in the universe and is also placed on the altar.
8. Images of ancestors: It is also common practice to honor ancestors with images or pictures on the altar.
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