The dragon, or long in Chinese, is the only mythical creature among the 12 Chinese zodiac signs. It has existed in legendary tales for millennia, recognized as a totem of Chinese nation and has long-held spiritual importance in China, according to Chu Xiaobo, director of Shanghai Museum.

The exhibition chose eight objects, covering dragons from the Neolithic period to the modern age, from abstract imagery to descriptive portrayals of the creature, said Chu Xin, deputy director of the exhibition department of Shanghai Museum.

"We hope visitors will find the versatile representation of the dragon in Chinese culture to be imperatorial and solemn as well as vivid, cute and lovable," she said.