The double ladder within a star or a crowned circle is an ancient symbol of the Chinese culture, representing the Tao, the union of two opposites and the cycle of the sun and moon. It is often found in works of art and literature, and is especially important in Daoism. The double ladder represents the balance between yin and yang, the two opposing forces in the universe. The star or crowned circle is often interpreted as the sacred pearl of perfection, or the divine cosmic energy.