Dog in Chinese mythology resemblance to the real animal, which, however, plays a big part in Chinese folklore."(Eberhard, 2003: 164) The reasons for referencing "guardian lions" as "dogs" in Western cultures may be obscure, however the phenomenon is well known. Despite any fantastic myths from China about dogs, real dogs have been familiar throughout China since prehistorical times (unlike certain exotic animals, such as lions or other creatures, whose real attributes may often only have been known indirectly). Dogs also feature in various historical and legendary accounts or stories, found in the extensive literary records of China, although in some cases the lines between
Li Shishi Li Shishi Li Shishi was a courtesan (角妓 / 角伎) in Kaifeng, the capital of the Song Dynasty, and Emperor Huizong was a regular client of hers. She fled to Zhejiang or Hunan after the Jingkang Incident of the Jin–Song wars occurred in 1127. In the classical novel "Water Margin", Li Shishi encounters the outlaws from Liangshan Marsh on two occasions; on the second, more important encounter, she befriends Yan Qing and agrees to become her sworn sister. She then promises Yan Qing that she will tell the emperor about the outlaws' plight and desire to be granted amnesty. Song