Eleven Dragons: Ming dynasty, ca. 1400–1500
Inquire:
1. Examine all available images for this scroll and use the zoom feature. Can you identify all the different animals that compose a dragon?
Using the available images for this scroll and the zoom feature I am able to identify most of the animals that make up the dragon. I am able to spot the horns of a deer, head of an ox, beard of a catfish, scales of a carp, claws of an eagle, and body of a serpent. After careful examination, I am not able to identify the eyes of a ghost, mouth of a donkey, and the mane of a lion.
2. Compare and contrast the body features of Chinese dragons with dragons in European art.
Chinese dragons and European dragons are both mythical creatures with reptilian characteristics. The differences are found in their body features. Some of the differences include a snake like depiction of dragons versus the European dragons with prominent wings. In Europe, dragons are a menacing symbol, while in China they are more positively viewed as powerful and strong. European dragons are generally colored in darker blacks and grays, while Chinese dragons are portrayed using bright colors.
3. Research Chinese legends that feature dragons, and compare and contrast these legends with European legends that have dragons.
In Chinese legends, dragons are seen as symbols of power and good luck. They bring rain and prosperity to the lands. Dragons are seen as guardians of the natural world and are often depicted in Chinese architecture. Chinese legends depict dragons with magical abilities such as the power to transform into other animals or humans.
In European Legends, dragons breathe fire and are seen as destructive, evil creatures. It is often up to a hero to slay the beast in order to recover treasure or a damsel in distress.
https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/article-chinese-dragons.