Sacred animal recalls Beijing's turbulent past

In Beijing's Summer Palace, a life-sized bronze ox lies on its belly on the eastern bank of Lake Kunming near the bridge with 17 arches. With both its ears pricked up, the elegant animal seems to be admiring the mountains and lake in the imperial garden.

As a symbol of the Summer Palace, the statue, known as the Golden Ox, has witnessed many memorable events.

It was cast in 1755 on the order of Emperor Qianlong at the height of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). An inscription in the emperor's handwriting reads: "This sacred ox is made with gold to keep peace forever and bring good luck."