Friday, May 4, 2012

Chinese Creatures


                I chose the dragon and the phoenix to place on either side of the relief.

Dragons in Europe are normally considered evil, Chinese dragons traditionally symbolize potent and auspicious powers, specifically control over water, rainfall, hurricanes, and floods.   The dragon is a symbol of  power, strength, prosperity, good fortune, adaptability, transformation, and is also a symbol for the Emperor. Dragons can be found throughout China however it is common knowledge that dragons with 2 or 3 claws are reserved for commoners. Dragons with 4 claws are reserved for nobles, and a dragon with 5 claws is reserved for the Emperor. Many pictures dragons show a flaming pearl under their chin, the pearl is associated with wealth, good luck, and prosperity.

The Chinese Phoenix also known as Fenghuang symbolizes virtue, duty,  humanity, and reliability. When paired with a dragon the phoenix becomes a symbol for the Empress and also a happy marriage.


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