Obscurity, Oddity, and Icon

With the benefit of scientific studies, popular media, and zoo displays, this chapter traces the transformation of the giant panda from an unknown animal to a national treasure. Prior to the twentieth century the giant panda was virtually absent from or forgotten in Chinese historic cultural artifacts. China’s general populace did not take a strong interest in the giant panda until after 1949. An upsurge of scientific studies on the giant panda unveiled numerous curiosities about the panda that aroused both domestic and international interest. Because of its biological peculiarities, the panda was used as a tool for teaching communist citizens scientific thought. Although the panda was first introduced to the public through science, its attractive and unique appearance inspired adoration. Increasingly the general populace was not only intrigued by the panda, but began to embrace it as a popular symbol of the nation.