The Qilin is a legendary hooved creature that appears in Chinese mythology. They are said to appear with the imminent arrival or passing of a ruler. They are also sometimes called the Kirin in Japanese and Korean mythology.

The Qilin generally have Chinese dragon-like features with antlers, thick eyelashes, manes that flow upwards, and beards. The body is fully or partially scaled and is often shaped like an ox or horse. These animals are always shown with cloven hooves. The Qilin maybe a variety of colors, and is often shown with jewel-like brilliance. Color choice are often associated with the elements, but can also reflect earth tones.

According to Taoist mythology, even though they look fearsome Qilin only punish the wicked. Court trials were even decided based on Qilin divinely knowing whether the defended was good or evil.

In Buddist-influenced depictions, Qilin can walk between grass blades so they will not harm a single blade or another creature. As divine and peaceful creatures, they are only herbivores. It is said they only appear in areas ruled by wise and benevolent leaders and they become fierce if a pure person is threatened.

But what inspired this creature?

Giraffes have long been associated with the image of the legendary Qilin. Their association can be traced back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).

After Zheng He traveled to East Africa he brought giraffes, zebras, and other exotic animals back to Ninjing. The two giraffes were declared magical creatures by the emperor, whose capture signaled greatness in his power.

It is said the female was called lin and the male was called qi. Together the giraffes were called Qilin.

The identification between the Qilin and the giraffe is supported by attributes in both animals. They both are herbivorous animals and have calm, quiet demeanors. As previously mention, the Qilin is able to walk on grass without disturbing it. This may be related to giraffe’s long, thin legs.

Qilin’s also have antlers like a deer and scales like a dragon. Giraffes have horn-like ossicones on its head and a tiled coat pattern resembling scales.

It is easy to draw an analogy between these two creatures. The identification of Qilin has had a lasting influence. Even today the same word is used for the mythical animal and the giraffe in both Korean and Japanese.

You can see recent depictions of this mythical creature in “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” and “Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore.” Perhaps as you see them there, you will remember what inspired this fantastic beast.

Sources:

Parker, J. T.:” The Mythic Chinese Unicorn”

Qilin. The Demonic Paradise Wiki. (n.d.). Retrieved April 25, 2022, from https://the-demonic-paradise.fandom.com/wiki/Qilin

Wilson, Samuel M. “The Emperor’s Giraffe”, Natural History Vol. 101, No. 12, December 1992 “