Dragons are reptilian creatures that have different manifestations and roles among many cultures. The Oriental dragons symbolize favorable power. They are believed to control the weather and are associated with all forms of moving in water. In China, dragons were used to symbolize rank and status: commonly as the symbol of the emperor.
The Zhou Dynasty, a five-clawed dragon was attributed to the emperor. The Zhou Dynasty, a five clawed dragon was attributed to the emperor, a four clawed to the nobles, a three clawed dragon to the ministers. The Qin Dynasty attributed the four and three-clawed dragon to the common folk. Dragons also have a place in the Chinese Zodiac.
DRAGON DANCE
In festive celebrations Chinese people often use the term 'Descendants of the Dragon' as a sign of ethnic identity. Musical accompanies in the form of musicians with traditional drums, cymbals and gongs. The Dragon dance emphasizes the Chinese New Year celebrations held worldwide in Chinatown's around the world.
