Bronze Ox

Why does a bronze ox stand guard over Kunming Lake? Here at the Summer Palace, on the east shore of Kunming Lake, sits the Bronze Ox. It’s not just a statue. It’s a symbol, steeped in history and legend. The Bronze Ox was cast in 1755, during the reign of Emperor Qianlong. He envisioned this life-sized ox, perched on its wave-lined pedestal, as a protector against the lake’s potential fury. The inscription on its back, penned by the emperor himself, speaks of its flood-controlling powers. The emperor’s words echo an ancient tradition. As far back as the Xia Dynasty, iron oxen were placed in riverbeds after floods subsided. By the Tang Dynasty, the oxen moved to the riverbanks, a custom Qianlong followed here at Kunming Lake. The Bronze Ox was originally gilded, earning it the nickname “Gold Ox”. Sadly, the gold was lost to looters during times of conflict. But even without its golden sheen, the Bronze Ox remains impressive. It’s the largest of its kind in China, a testament to the artistry of ancient metalworkers. Its presence here isn’t just about flood control. Some say it also served as a water level monitor. The east bank of Kunming Lake is significantly higher than the Forbidden City. The Bronze Ox offered a convenient vantage point to watch for dangerous rises in the water. And there’s yet another tale, a touch of romance interwoven with the Bronze Ox’s story. Legend tells of the celestial lovers, the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl. Emperor Qianlong saw Kunming Lake as the Milky Way and himself as the Jade Emperor. He cast the Bronze Ox to represent the Cowherd, separated from his love by the vast lake. Across the water, a marble tablet once depicted the Weaver Girl. Sadly, this tablet was lost, but the tale continues to be whispered around the Bronze Ox. Today, the Bronze Ox welcomes visitors to the Summer Palace, a beloved photo spot and a reminder of the rich tapestry of stories that color this historic place.