The most important of Chinese mythological beasts (see Chinese entries), dragons are positive expressions of yang, the male principle balanced by the female yin, represented by the phoenix (see Yinyang). The dragon and the phoenix were symbols of Chinese emperors and empresses from the Han Dynasty on. The dragon was especially associated with the sea and other forms of water. Dragon dances mark the beginning of the Chinese lunar year (see Dragon King).Dimensions: 10"x3"1/8x10"Preparation time:> 2-3 working days