4. A Dragon Scale
Given to: Elizabeth II, the queen
Donated by: Dragon Dance Committee Estimated Value: Not specified
For those who are unaware, dragon dance is a kind of traditional Chinese dance performance that holds great significance in the culture. Like the lion dance, the dragon dance is frequently performed on joyous occasions. Chinese folklore associates the dragon with strength, knowledge, and prosperity. By chasing evil spirits and their bad luck away, the dragon dance brings in good fortune and prosperity.
A Scale of a Dragon ©Fox Images/GGetty Images
Queen Elizabeth received a “dragon scale” from the Hong Kong Dragon Dance Committee in 1975. This scale was a gorgeous, elaborate piece of cloth with golden thread embroidery that was intended to resemble a scale from the mythical beast.
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