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| Dragons in art from the Western Chou (ca. 11th
c.-771 BC) and Spring and Autumn Period (770-481 BC) follow mostly after those of the
Shang dynasty, but they become even more patternized and decorative. Eyes gradually are
less prominent, and designs are generally based on a symmetrical or curving arrangement.
By the Warring States Period (481-221 BC), the dragon appears in an increasing variety of
forms. Individual representations of dragons often show them as curvilinear "S"
patterns that appear full of energy and potential. Bodies are often shown with a pattern
of neatly arranged raised dots, while the curving tail and mane create a
"cut-out" design of solid and void. After adjusting the appearance of and
relation between the body and tail, the dragon evolved into a beast with a serpentine
body, strong legs, and a prominent tail. Thereafter, the dragon galloped and romped
through Chinese art, the form of which lasted through the T'ang (618-907) and Five
Dynasties (907-960) period. |
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