相濡以沫 — Zhuangzi | Printable Wall Art

“相濡以沫”
“Moistening each other with spittle to survive (mutual support through hardship).”

Words by Zhuangzi (369 BC-286 BC) — Ancient Chinese philosopher, foundational figure of Taoism.

About this quote

Originally describing stranded fish keeping each other moist with their breath, this ancient metaphor speaks to devoted companionship during difficult times. It describes two people sharing scarce resources and offering quiet, selfless support to survive hardship together. Deep affection and lasting loyalty are often shown not in comfort, but in shared struggle.

This phrase comes from the *Zhuangzi*, a foundational text of Taoist philosophy written in fourth-century BC China. It originally appears in a parable about fish trapped in a dried puddle, illustrating deep mutual care during adversity.

Couples often hang this print in the bedroom or living space as a tribute to steadfast, lifelong partnership.

What you get

An instant digital download. Choose your design and size at checkout — 19 typographic designs and 8 print sizes are available for this quote.

• Print-ready PDF with fully embedded vector type — sharp at any scale
• Exact trim size, no cropping required
• Print at home, at a local print shop, or upload to an online printer
• Instant download — no physical item is shipped

Sizes available

5" x 7" · 8" x 10" · 11" x 14" · 12" x 16" · 16" x 20" · 18" x 24" · 24" x 36" · A4 (21 x 29.7 cm)

Designs available

Atelier Serif · Quiet Garamond · Studio Left · Gallery Rule · Midnight Serif · Editorial Left Serif · Modern Sans Calm · Letterpress Caps · Poster Condensed · Script Whisper · Manuscript Italic · Asymmetric Left · Minimal Unsigned · Charcoal Sans · Gallery Frame · Soft Serif Right · Statement Serif · Night Script · Tracked Caps Unsigned

Digital product. Colours may vary slightly between screens and printers. Frames and props are not included.