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epa02037053 Chinese performers portray an imperial entourage dressed in brilliant clothing during a recreation of the Sacrifice to Heaven ritual on the eve of the Lunar New Year, or Spring Festival, at the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, China, 17 February 2010. The elaborate ritual was performed 682 times by 23 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, which together spanned from 1368 AD to 1911 AD. The first Sacrifice to Heaven ritual began in the year 1420 AD when the Temple of Heaven was completed. The practice was meant to usher in wealth and security for the emperor (the Son of Heaven) and his nation. China celebrated the first day of the Lunar New Year of the Tiger on 14th February 2010. EPA/DIEGO AZUBEL