This new find is older than the famous Hongshan Neolithic jade dragon, which is characterized by its characteristic C-shaped design.
Recently, archaeologists discovered a dragon-like figurine carefully crafted from mussel shells in the northern Chinese city of Chifeng. The significance of this discovery lies in filling a gap in the scientific understanding of the dragon motif in the early stages of Hongshan culture’s development, writes the Global Times.
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Among the researchers of this find, it is argued that this is an important step forward in the recognition of the cultural and symbolic fabric of the region. With a modest length of about 20 centimeters, the elegant dragon mosaic is a masterfully crafted composite work of numerous mussel shells that come together to form the skull, body and tail sections.
According to the environment, the excavated artifacts were close to the remains of two clay pots, characteristic of the material heritage of the Hongshan culture. The artifacts also show the characteristic signs of this cultural environment.
The clam shell depiction, which is quite different from the C-shaped jade dragon emblem, which is the predecessor of the Hongshan culture, draws attention with its craftsmanship and stylistic design. A particular complexity is evident, which gives rise to the appearance of realism that permeates the depiction of the smallest elements, such as the dentition, the curving continuation of the tail, and other intricacies of the sculpture.
Distinguishing from the traditional C-shaped archetype characterized by a curved body, the current incarnation defines an alternative figure with its wide and unfolded image.
Archaeologists agree that the jade artifacts still found today, symbolizing Hongshan culture, were probably intended for venerated sites such as sacred structures or high-status ceremonial sites.
In contrast, the dragon found during recent research may be evidence of the spiritual outlook that inspires the inhabitants of humble homes.
A stable frontier of the Neolithic era, the Hongshan culture left its cultural traces in the Liao River basin in northeastern China. The geographical boundaries of the Hongshan monuments cover a wide area from the Inner Mongolia region to Liaoning and cover a time period from 4700 to 2900 BC.
A feature that distinguishes this culture from others is the elaborate stone art with jade carving, symbolizing its artistic heritage.
Previously Focus He wrote about a fossil that could rewrite history. A fossilized femur found in France has provided an unusual glimpse into the early stages of development of our modern lineage, Homo sapiens.
Source: Focus
Ashley Fitzgerald is an accomplished journalist in the field of technology. She currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker. With a deep understanding of the latest technology developments, Ashley’s writing provides readers with insightful analysis and unique perspectives on the industry.