The Dragon Throne: A Symbol of Imperial Power
The Forbidden City is a famous architectural masterpiece located in Beijing, China. Here, we can explore not only the imperial lifestyle of ancient times but also learn about their clothing, food, residences, and daily life.
However, there is a place known as the Hall of Supreme Harmony that is not open to visitors. In the center of this hall sits a very intricately carved Dragon Throne. The Dragon Throne is a symbol of the emperor’s authority. It is rumored that only those deemed worthy may sit upon it; anyone who dares to offend will face consequences.
Thus, this item is adorned with dragon carvings and various decorative motifs. From a distance, one can see a magnificent masterpiece glowing in gold.
In reality, most ancient artifacts were made from wood. The simple reason for this is that wood is easy to work with and widely available. Looking at the masterpiece in the Forbidden City, many question: Is the Dragon Throne used by the emperor carved from wood or made entirely of gold?
In ancient times, emperors led nations and possessed vast amounts of gold and silver. Casting a throne from solid gold was not impossible. However, despite gold’s value, it is uncomfortable for prolonged sitting. Emperors had to sit on the Dragon Throne daily to manage state affairs, making it unwise for their health over time.
The Dragon Throne is reserved for the emperor.
Therefore, most Dragon Thrones are made of wood and then covered with a layer of gold on the outside.
However, the material used for the Dragon Throne is not ordinary furniture wood but rather a very precious kind known as nanmu. The nanmu used for the Dragon Throne is the finest selection, with a golden core. It is not only fragrant but also extremely durable.
Golden nanmu has a sheen similar to satin. This type of wood has longevity, which is why it was used to create coffins for officials and nobility in ancient times. Additionally, this material can prevent various insects, mold, and harmful bacteria. Beds made from nanmu wood are rumored to be warm in winter and cool in summer, making them ideal for the weak.
Regrettably, due to historical upheavals, dynasties changing, and the Dragon Throne left by predecessors possibly being lost to time, many cultural relics from previous dynasties in China have suffered significant damage.
Even though later generations wish to restore them, the unique techniques and materials of that era have long been lost, making it impossible for successors to recreate them as they were originally.
According to the Palace Museum, repairing a small flaw on the Dragon Throne can take up to three years. As a result, even experts hesitate to touch it. The Dragon Throne in the Forbidden City remains stored in the Hall of Supreme Harmony, not open for public viewing.
The Truth Behind the Two Figures Who Died After Sitting on the Dragon Throne
Ancient Chinese texts mention that the Dragon Throne is a sacred treasure reserved for those of noble rank, known as the Son of Heaven. Ordinary people who have sat upon it often meet similar fates.
The first was Li Zicheng. In 1627, Chongzhen ascended as the emperor of the Ming dynasty. However, due to a decaying court, he could not turn the tide. One of the strongest uprisings in China at that time was led by Li Zicheng.
After overthrowing the Ming dynasty, Li Zicheng seized the throne and declared himself emperor. He sat on the Dragon Throne in the Forbidden City, demanding officials to bow before him. Just one day later, Li Zicheng set fire to the Forbidden City and fled Beijing. After reigning for just over 40 days, he was dethroned by Wu Sangui.
Historical records note that Li Zicheng died in Hubei in April 1645, surrounded by many unanswered questions regarding his death.
Portrait of Yuan Shikai (Image: WK).
The next was Yuan Shikai. In February 1912, he coerced Puyi, the last emperor of the Qing dynasty, to abdicate in his favor. Preparing for his coronation, Yuan Shikai replaced the Qing dynasty’s throne in the Hall of Supreme Harmony with his new Dragon Throne. In December 1915, Yuan Shikai donned a dragon robe and held a Heaven Sacrifice ceremony at the Temple of Heaven in eastern Beijing. By June 1916, he suddenly passed away.
In light of the conflicting opinions regarding the mysterious curse surrounding the Dragon Throne, many experts argue that these historical figures emerged during times of war, leading uprisings and movements. Given the historical context, they lived in a period of turmoil and upheaval, making unexpected deaths common.
