We know the Chinese have a deep admiration for dragons, as they often being regarded as the Descendants of Dragon. Do you know when the China first dragon appeared in Chinese culture?
There are several reasons why dragons hold such a special place in Chinese tradition. Just look at the image on the right—the Chinese dragon appears majestic and attractive, strong and powerful. Although it has a mystical quality, it also conveys a sense of hope.
Chinese Dragon truly is an impressive creature, aren’t they?
Well, not really. The Chinese dragon did not always appear like this. In fact, ancient representations of dragons looked quite different. Let’s explore the history of dragons together.
Which are the China First Dragons?
China first dragon image appeared around 8,000 years old, found in the stone sculpture of the Xinglongwa culture in the Liaohe River Basin. This stone dragon is made of reddish stone gravel. It is around 20 meters long with a 2 meters wide dragon head. The actual purpose is still unknown.
Then the 6000 years old Yangshao culture dragon, at the cemetery of Xishuipo site. The dragon image is made of clam shells, measuring around 2 meter long. It looks like a mammal creature.
China First Dragon- made of Jade and Pottery
Archaeologists uncovered several discoveries of dragons that age around 5000 years old, there belong to the Hongshan Culture Site and the Lingjiatan Site.
These dragons are made of jade stone, believe to be wearing accessories. The C-shaped dragon has a curled body, with a protruding snout and prismatic eyes, and a mane. It looks more like an eel.
Another dragon uncovered with a Pig look-a-like head and curled body, and big eyes with circles and wrinkles. It comes with a wide mouth, a protruding snout, and wide ears.
Archaeologists uncovered more dragons aged between 3,000 to 4,000 years, including from the Taosi site at Linfen, Erlitou, Panlongcheng, and Sanxingdui.
One notable dragon image from the Taosi site appears on a beautifully painted clay pottery plate. The pottery features intricate red coiled dragon patterns. The dragon’s body is coiled from the outside inward, with its head positioned at the edge of the plate, and it has a spike in its mouth. The design resembles that of an oarfish or sea snake.
A unique dragon from the Erlitou site, consists of over 2,000 pieces of turquoise in various shapes. The dragon measures 65 cm in length and 4 cm in width at its midsection. Its head is a large, flat, round shape with a slightly protruding snout.
The vessel shaped like a dragon, found at the Panlongcheng site, is inlaid with gold and turquoise pieces. It was discovered at the bottom of a tomb. Does this resemble a tortoise?
Chinese Dragon Image That We Know
These are just a few examples of discoveries regarding China first dragon, which come in various forms. It was not until the Han dynasty (202 BC – 220 AD) that the dragon became a symbol of the emperor. During this time, the authority began to standardize the image of the dragon. They added features such as horns, scales, fins, and sharp claws, as well as mystical clouds, transforming the dragon into a majestic and awe-inspiring creature that resembles the image we recognize today.
We believe that ancient Chinese culture drew inspiration from various animals to create their spiritual dragons. This is why some dragons resemble snakes, fish, eels, crocodiles, tortoises, and even pigs—yes, pigs.
China First Dragon from a Pig?
If you’re puzzled by the idea of a “pig to dragon” connection, consider the importance of the pig to the Chinese ancestors. The Chinese character for “home” is pronounced “jiā” and consists of two components. The top portion represents a roof or shelter, while the bottom portion symbolizes a pig. When combined, these elements form the character for “home.”
Take it easy; after all, this is just hypothetical. You might think the transformation was too drastic to accept. Here’s a fun fact: the “whale,” like the blue whale—the largest animal on our planet—is said to have evolved from a pig-like creature named Pakicetus. How about that?
Evolution of the word “Dragon”
In addition to examining ancient images and artifacts, we can also explore the China first dragon through various objects, including inscriptions and writings.
The term “dragon” can be found on Chinese oracle bones that date back 3,500 years. The representation of the dragon also appeared as an inscription on bronze artifacts and later as written characters on bamboo scripts, ultimately evolving onto paper and continuing to the present day.
These are some of the earliest representations of the Chinese dragon, which existed far longer than we initially expected, even before the Chinese developed their writing system, making it older than oracle bones.
Dragon as the Emperor symbol
The Chinese dragon has long been viewed as mystical and powerful, closely associated with the emperor. This has led to its reverence and the belief that it is untouchable by ordinary people. The representation of dragons is particularly elaborate in the emperor’s palaces, and it is said that such imagery is exclusive to the palace. The term “dragon” is used to describe things that belong to the emperor, such as referring to the emperor’s body as the “dragon body,” the emperor’s face as the “dragon face,” the throne as the “dragon throne,” and the bed as the “dragon bed.”
Dragon for the ordinary forks
Despite their close association with the emperor, the ordinary Chinese’s fascination with dragons has not diminished. The Dragon Dance, a popular cultural activity that symbolizes good fortune and peace, is often performed during the Chinese New Year and other significant festivals. This tradition is not only observed in China and its neighbouring countries but also celebrated in Europe and the Americas
Infact, the chinese word “Lóng” meaning Dragon, is a popular given name for a boy.
Conclusions for the China First Dragon
The Chinese dragon has evolved throughout history but has always been depicted positively, symbolizing power, intelligence, prosperity, and longevity. I believe that dragons will continue to hold a special place in the hearts of the Chinese people for many more millennia to come.