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A written history of the Xizhou Dynasty (1027-771 BC) described the Giant Panda, or Pixiu, as an invincible animal, as strong as a tiger. This description was repeated in the Shijin, the first written collection of poems prepared at about the same time. This sentiment regarding the prowess of the panda may explain, in part, why panda pelts were offered as tribute to emperors and kings of the day. Another reference to the Giant Panda or Zouya was as a gentle animal, since it was never observed to hurt man or beast. The panda became a symbol of peace. In the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD), the panda was described as having great medicinal value. Detailed in a medical tome, the panda's pelt was believed to have a magical influence that could repel plague and prevent tumors. Drinking panda urine was thought to dissolve impurities. |
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