Breathtaking and diverse, the crystal dragon collection at LIULI depicts the many faces of this revered and exalted creature. Some pieces paint him atop rolling and hypnotic waves emulating the ocean while others incorporate a combination of solid shape and fluid movement; for example, the dragon resting on a rectangular, stone-like, earthen crystal pedestal as seen below in 'Congregation of Goodwill Figure, Dragon of Auspiciousness.' 

The majesty of the dragon is unmatched. It is not something ubiquitously seen every day, but when imagined or invited into life in art form, this figure is sure to catch eyes and inspire awe. Its beauty and ethereal motion are eternal and seemingly endless. 

Crystal Dragons at LIULI 

The crystal dragon collection at LIULI includes mythological crystal figurines, a lovely crystal dragon pendant, paperweights, bone china bowls, and crystal sake glasses. 

Some examples of pieces in this collection include the following: 

Crystal paperweight, The Beauty of Harmony: A delicate yet breathtakingly beautiful paperweight with a sublime shape inspired by Yin and Yang.

Congregation of Goodwill Figure, Dragon of Auspiciousness: The dragon rests above a throne of earthly fire breathing life into all that encompasses it, connecting the heavens to the terrestrial realm below with an immense force, commanding attention and asserting power. 

Overwhelming and Unstoppable, Dragon of Superiority : The dragon ascends, hurtling through a rising tide, burgeoning and blooming with power, like the sun’s strength building as it emerges from the east.

Crystal Treasure Vase, Feng Shui, Dragon of Metal Element, Ethereal Chime Baoping: Graceful and elegant, serene and collected, this is the most exquisite piece from the collection. Heaven and earth in harmony, life renewed and prosperous.

The Dragon in Eastern Legend & Mythology 

In China, there are known to be nine different types of dragons. Some say the dragon is made of nine different animal parts, including the neck of the snake and the paws of a tiger.  

In the Chinese zodiac, the dragon represents the fifth of twelve animals. According to the University of Washington, “the dragon is unique because it is the only mythical creature of all the animals in the Chinese zodiac and babies are born in the year of the dragon more than any other animal.”

Commonly linked to water, in eastern mythology, one would not want to slay a dragon, as it would not be considered brave or heroic. The dragon is known to keep away dangerous waters, such as floods. So, eliminating the dragon may incite something disastrous. 

Additionally, there is a myth told of a carp-type fish swimming to a fabled place known as Dragon Gate, and upon successfully making it over the gate, is granted the benefit of becoming a dragon. Here, we see another association between the dragon and water. 

Another ancient Chinese legend tells of the dragon adoring pearls, believing the moon to be the largest pearl. It is told that if or when the dragon gets a hold of the moon, it catalyzes an eclipse. 

In China, it is also common to see a dragon exhaling clouds as opposed to flames. Unlike western tales told of dragons fighting man, dragons in China and the east are known to be gentle, amiable giants that are sent to help mankind and not hurt or thwart them. 

Emperors of ancient China were also known to cherish the dragon, holding them in high esteem for their power and dignified stature. Some emperors were known as the descendants of dragons or their sons. 

Allegory of the Dragon 

The dragon is also a huge symbol of protection and is a guardian and friend to mankind. It is often also juxtaposed with the belief of Yang as it relates to Yin and Yang and Feng Shui. 

The dragon allegorically represents kindness and auspiciousness in Chinese legends and mythology and is often representative of water, including moving or flowing bodies such as rivers. The dragon is known to hold back the waters from flooding the earth, and as such, often symbolizes benevolence and kindness, as well as protection, and is linked to watching out for farmers and orchestrating the weather conditions, which is directly linked to a bountiful harvest and the health and wealth of all. 

The Azure Dragon of the East, specifically, represents one of the four animals connected with the four cardinal points of direction. 

Year of a Dragon 

If you were born in a year of the dragon, wearing the dragon or a sign, symbol, or representation of one can be auspicious, as can keeping dragon symbols or figures around your home. They are known to bestow protection upon businesses, as well. 

The use of arranging items around the home can be used to balance Yin-Yang in the practice known as Feng Shui. In Feng Shui, it is recommended to place dragon figures facing toward the east or on that side of a room, such as a common area or living room. Some rooms should be avoided, however, such as the bedroom, closets, and bathrooms. Instead, aim for open areas that can benefit from channeling a large amount of energy. However, some suggest adding the phoenix to the bedroom with a dragon to balance out Yin-Yang and to specifically promote the happiness of couples and marital unions. 

View LIULI dragon collection: