Stone Drums

In addition to their decorative purpose, the stones you find at the entranceways to Chinese temples also serve as part of the base of the door posts, where they provide enhanced stability. Typically referred to as “stone drums” because of their round shape, they are made of a very high-quality stone called diabase, which is nearly as hard as diamond. 

Stone drums always come in pairs, with one at the base of each door post. The ones at Lungshan Temple have carvings depicting two dragons flying through the air. They symbolize the relationship between the yin and yang principles of the cosmos. The stone drum on the left has a large dragon and a small one. This combination is called “Green dragon teaches his son” and symbolizes the transmission of culture from one generation to the next. The stone on the right features the familiar theme of two dragons guarding a pearl, which symbolizes the joint efforts of a community where everyone works together and shares their resources.