Chinese Dragon

This colorful Chinese dragon fashion umbrella features a multi-color dragon on a light purple background shade. The dragon is made up of the colors yellow, blue, red and green for a vibrant and bold effect. Clouds or wisps of smoke can be seen circling the edges of the umbrella shade. The fiery pearl of wisdom (often depicted with the Chinese dragon) can be seen above the dragon's head. This remarkable Chinese dragon umbrella is entirely handcrafted and painted by hand. The type of dragon represented on this umbrella is akin to the Chinese dragons seen during the Chinese New Year celebration. In these celebrations, people place a flexible figure of the dragon over their heads and perform a dance. The dance is intended as a celebration and to ward away evil spirits. During the dragon dance, the performers hold poles attached to the dragon and raise and lower it for the effect of it flying and moving. Occasionally a separate performer holds the "pearl of wisdom" on a pole and tempts the dragon to follow it, usually with the beat of a drum. This is symbolic of the dragon seeking knowledge and wisdom. These dragon dances are very elaborate and the performers are skilled with many years of practice. The dragon costumes can be just a few yards long up to dozens of yards. Many consider a longer dragon to be luckier than a shorter dragon. While dragon dances can be performed during the day or night, at night a blazing torch is usually lighted to precede the dragon and light the way. Unlike the dragons in other cultures, the Chinese dragon has features of other animals. For example, it has the horns of a stag, the footpads of a tiger and the scales of a fish. Yet it flies, controls the weather and is the fiercest and strongest of all the creatures in the Chinese zodiac. This sensational dragon umbrella will serve as fine decor in your home. Or simply carry it outside for protection from the sun while making a fashion statement.