Bronze and shakudô sculpture of a dragon on its belly, mouth open. The dragon’s distinctive pose, with outstretched wings (or fins) and sharp claws, makes it appear to be in flight or roaming the ocean.

The dragon (ryû) is an animal from Chinese mythology. In Japan, as symbol of strength and power, it is known as one of the guardians of Buddhism. It is reputed to live in the clouds or in water.

Signed under the dragon’s belly “Miyao”, by Miyao Eisuke (宮尾栄助). Heading workshops in Tokyo and Yokohama that mainly produced bronze sculptures during the Meiji era, Miyao Eisuke was not a metallurgist, but designed the works of art and had them made by practitioners. His creations, mainly human figures, are destined for foreign markets and are renowned for their dynamic poses.

Japan (Tokyo ou Yokohama), Miyao Eisuke (宮尾栄助) – Meiji era (1868-1912)

Height: 66 in / 26 cm – width: 96,5 in / 38 cm – depth : 91 in / 36 cm