A Jewelry Dragon from Yueqing, Zhejiang Province, is captivating visitors at the Chinese Traditional Culture Museum in Beijing. On display since December 24, 2024, this magnificent lantern showcases the rich heritage and artistry of Chinese culture.
The Jewelry Dragon is not just any lantern; it’s a unique dragon lantern modeled after a fishing boat. Measuring approximately 5 meters in length, 3 meters in height, and 2 meters in width, it features a dragon head at the front and a tail at the back. The central body is adorned with multi-tiered pavilions housing hundreds of lifelike figurines.
What makes the Jewelry Dragon truly mesmerizing is its intricate gear-driven mechanism. The figurines move and animate the dragon, creating a captivating display of craftsmanship that comes alive before your eyes.
Every year during the Lantern Festival, grand Jewelry Dragon parades light up the streets of Yueqing. These vibrant events are filled with local people’s hopes for prosperity, harmony, and abundant harvests in the coming year.
With over 400 years of history, the Jewelry Dragon represents a rich tradition of fine craftsmanship. Its creation is a complex process combining techniques such as woodworking, painting, paper crafting, and lantern making. In recognition of its cultural significance, the Jewelry Dragon was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2014.
The Jewelry Dragon not only illuminates the night but also shines a light on China’s enduring cultural heritage, captivating new generations with its blend of history and artistry.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
