Move over, modern art – China’s Neolithic era just dropped a millennia-old flex ! Meet the legendary 'First Loong of China,' a 5,000-year-old jade dragon carving that’s rewriting history books and sparking TikTok-worthy cultural pride.
Discovered in 1971 in Inner Mongolia, this C-shaped masterpiece – carved from deep green jade – features intense diamond-shaped eyes and a flowing mane that would make any fantasy novel dragon jealous. Archaeologists say its closed mouth and coiled posture symbolize ancient beliefs about harmony between heaven and earth
.
Fun fact: This loong (China’s traditional dragon term) predates even the earliest written Chinese characters! Now displayed at the National Museum of China, it’s become a must-see for history buffs and #CulturedGenZ travelers alike. Pro tip: Visit during Lunar New Year for extra mythical vibes !
Reference(s):
cgtn.com