9 Dragons Large Oval

Large oval porcelain platter decorated with one large dragon surrounded by eight smaller dragons. Eight and nine are considered lucky numbers in Chinese cultures with eight the most auspicious and nine practically divine (representing heaven and "forever"). We hope this platter attracts all kinds of luck to you.  Measures approximately 12” in length, 8-1/2” wide, and 1/2” tall. Microwave and dishwasher safe. The Year of the Dragon holds the most gravitas among the 12 zodiac animals because the dragon is one of the most depicted and revered animals in Chinese art, history, and culture. Dragons are awe-inspiring, wild, and often benevolent creatures. Their association with protection stems from their transcendent power, a quality that became associated with the imperial family. Dragons appearing on Ming and Qing era robes, textiles, and decorative ceramics had a coded hierarchy mapped through the number of claws on the dragon’s paw. Five claws were reserved for the highest ranking offi