In China, there are many different types of Dragons, relating to anything from the elements to specific places. They embody strength, goodness and the spirit of change or transformation.

Dragons are symbolic of the creative strength of Heaven, masculine energy (Yang), and are believed to appear in the world if the ruling sovereign shows a lack of virtue. They are also said to exert a restraining influence over the sin of greed.

In this figure, the Coiled dragon is shown emerging from a crest of waves clutching a ball, or pearl. This can symbolize many different things-the sun, the moon, an egg which represents the dual influences of nature, or the pearl potentiality.

The Coiled Dragon inhabits waterways or the deepest parts of the sea.