In Chinese mythology, the loong is a powerful creature that governs clouds and rain and is seen as a symbol of emperors. Archaeological findings suggest that loong totems existed in China around 8,000 years ago. Some scholars believe the image of the loong originated from observations of celestial patterns, while others think it came from tribal totems. In ancient times, early tribes used animals as totems. As these tribes merged, their totems combined, eventually creating the loong.
According to the Er Ya Yi, the loong has the head of a camel, the neck of a snake, the antlers of a deer, turtle eyes, fish scales, tiger paws, eagle talons, and ox ears.
This is the classic image of the loong.
Over time, the loong absorbed traits from various animals, leading to the saying, "The nine children of the loong all look different."
The main lead character in Shui Long Yin, Tang Lici, is based on the Fox loong, which possesses fox-like characteristics. There is a story in Taiping Guangji about a white fox transforming into a loong, which likely inspired the Fox loong in Shui Long Yin. Actor Luo Yunxi, known for his beauty and charisma, has portrayed several loong-related roles: Runyu, based on the Yinglong (a winged loong), and Mingye, who transforms from a flood loong into Yinglong.
Which character is your favorite?
Note: Throughout this document, the terms Dragon, Loong, and Long all refer to the loong.
Author: 风风子/Aristolan
Proofreader: Aristolan/玲云永曦
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