A bronze dragon carving at the courtyard of Chuxiu Gong [Photo by Gu Caihua/cpanet.org.cn]

In traditional Chinese culture, the dragon has long been regarded as a symbol of auspiciousness, power and mystery. 

Sidestep stones made of white marble with the design of dragon on clouds [Photo by Gu Caihua/cpanet.org.cn]

Among the rich legacies of Chinese history, the dragon totems in the Forbidden City are undoubtedly a captivating presence.

Dragon painting on the roof [Photo by Gu Caihua/cpanet.org.cn]

The Forbidden City, a magnificent architectural complex known as the "treasure of China", was once the royal palace of the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, and it stands as the world's largest and most complete existing ancient wooden structure architectural complex. 

A wood carving of coiling dragons on the caisson of Wanchun Pavilion of the imperial garden [Photo by Gu Caihua/cpanet.org.cn]

As one of the most important cultural totems in China, the dragon has always been a symbol of good fortune. In the Forbidden City, the dragons, whether hovering in the sky, leaping between beams, or hidden in the details, all narrate ancient stories.

A censer decorated with dragon patterns [Photo by Gu Caihua/cpanet.org.cn]

In each corner of the Forbidden City, lifelike dragons in various shapes can be seen, showcasing not only exquisite craftsmanship, but also carrying deep historical and cultural connotations.

A relief pattern of dragon on a piece of glazed tile [Photo by Gu Caihua/cpanet.org.cn]

According to photographer Gu Caihua, those dragons perching on the roofs seem to be guarding the ancient palaces, while those dragons inlaid on beams appear to be telling the vicissitudes of history. 

Glazed eaves tile in the shape of dragon [Photo by Gu Caihua/cpanet.org.cn]

These dragons are not merely decorations; they carry the essence of Chinese culture.

Dragon patterns on the roof [Photo by Gu Caihua/cpanet.org.cn]

Head of column made of white marble with the design of dragon on clouds [Photo by Gu Caihua/cpanet.org.cn]

The throne surrounded with dragon decorations [Photo by Gu Caihua/cpanet.org.cn]

A dragon-shaped take-up lever of the palace lantern [Photo by Gu Caihua/cpanet.org.cn]

Dragon-shaped glazed tile screen wall [Photo by Gu Caihua/cpanet.org.cn]

Source: China Daily
Editor: Lyu Yun