A Japanese patinated bronze okimono depicting a Ryu dragon 龍 coiled upon itself, holding a sphere to simulate the sacred Buddhist jewel 玉 (tama). The dragon’s tail is wrapped in a way that allows it to support itself in an upright position with the help of its three-clawed paws.

The Ryu dragon 龍 is a deity that resides in water and possesses the power to control rain. In stories, Ryu dragons often demand Buddhist treasures, particularly relics, sometimes in exchange for calming storms. In their underwater realms, they safeguard treasures such as jewels and Buddhist texts.

Origin: Japan

Period: Meiji late 19th cent.

Dimensions: 32 x 17 x 16 cm. – Weight: 3700 gr.

State of preservation: Very good

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