The dragon is perhaps the most important of Chinese symbols of good fortune and protection, as the people of China hold a deep-rooted belief that they are descendants of the mythical creature. Thus, it is no surprise that the dragon has been one of Shanghai Tang's most prominent symbols ever since the brand's inception. While many Western civilizations regard the dragon as a figure of destruction and malevolence, the Chinese hold it in the highest esteem for its strength, dignity, and power for good.