Ancient Chinese believed that Four Supernatural Beasts, also known as the Four Celestial Emblems, had supernatural power and each of them guarded a direction on the compass. They are Qinglong, Zhuque, Baihu and Xuanwu.
Their images appeared during the Warring States period (476 BC – 221 BC). Since then, they were frequently painted on imperial palace, hall door, the city gate or the wall of tomb to ward off evil spirits.
Each Beast stands for a corresponding season, color, element, virtue, etc.
Qinglong (Dragon). East, Green/Blue, Spring, Wood, Planet Jupiter, liver & gall
Zhuque (Phoenix). South, Red, Summer, Fire, Planet Mars; heart and large intestines
Baihu (White Tiger). West, White, Autumn, Wind, Metal, Planet Venus, lungs and small intestine
Xuanwu (Tortoise). North, Black, Winter, Cold, Water, Planet Mercury, kidneys and bladder
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