Okimono: Dragon

"A fully articulated Japanese boxwood okimono of a dragon dating from Meiji period, 19th century. This is exceptionally long, measuring 28 1/4 inches. It has intricately carved scales and dorsal spines, with movable jaw, as well as movable protruding tongue, well carved horns, claws, and legs, with double inlaid eyes, unsigned (with modern stand, custom-made, for support). The dragon is an animal of the twelve-year zodiac cycle. It is the most important of the supernatural creatures that form the Japanese mythological fauna lore. It is the most represented mythological animal in Japanese fine and decorative arts. The varieties of dragons include: the celestial dragon who presides over the Mansions of the Gods and keeps them from decay; the spiritual dragon who ministers to the rain; the dragon of hidden treasures who watches over precious metals and stones buried in the earth. The Japanese dragon does not differ in appearance from that of the Chinese dragon except for its claws. Japanese dragons have three claws whereas Chinese Imperial dragons have five claws." - Bernie McManus, Appraiser, Woodbury House, Connecticut, 7/22/2010

Bonhams, London, sale #16867, November 5, 2009, lot #95. A fully articulated boxwood okimono of a dragon, Meiji period, the body intricately carved with scales and dorsal spines wiht a well carved head, legs and claws; its jaw movable with a protruding tongue, the eyes inlaid in mother of pearl with black pupils, unsigned.