About This Piece With its majestic upward gaze, intricately detailed scales, sharply curved claws, dynamically undulating body, and flowing tail, this impressive bronze dragon sculpture combines powerful movement with refined craftsmanship, measuring approximately 34 cm in width and weighing 1,234 g. Design and Craftsmanship This Japanese bronze sculpture depicts a dragon (龍, Ryū), a legendary creature deeply rooted in Japanese tradition. The dragon's face is particularly intricate, featuring piercing eyes, prominent eyebrows, gracefully extending horns, long whiskers spreading outward, and carefully sculpted fangs and tongue. Each element is rendered in remarkable three-dimensional detail. Finely defined scales cover the neck, body, and tail, while pointed ridges run along the back. Flowing decorative patterns follow the contours of the body, and the four powerful limbs feature sharply curved claws. The elongated tail ends in delicately textured, flowing strands of hair. Form and Presence Measuring approximately 34 cm in width and weighing 1,234 g, this substantial bronze sculpture features an elongated composition extending from the raised head to the sweeping tail, with its four limbs reaching in different directions. In Japan, dragon ornaments of this kind are traditionally displayed in the tokonoma (床の間), a dedicated alcove for displaying art and decorative objects in Japanese interiors. The included glossy black display base provides a striking contrast to the dragon's warm, golden-toned bronze surface. Cultural Significance of the Dragon In Japanese tradition, the dragon is an auspicious creature symbolizing strength, prosperity, abundance, and protection. Dragons have long been revered as sacred beings associated with water and rainfall. Because rain is essential for agricultural growth, dragons became closely connected with abundant harvests and prosperity. The image of a dragon ascending toward the heavens has also been used as a symbol of advancement, success, and positive development. The accompanying wooden plaque bears the Japanese calligraphy "Zuiryū" (瑞龍), meaning "Auspicious Dragon," reflecting the dragon's traditional association with good fortune. Accessories The sculpture comes with a black display base and a wooden plaque. Condition The bronze sculpture itself is in very good condition. However, as this is an older item that has been stored for several decades since the Shōwa era (昭和), there may be minor scratches or dirt that are not clearly visible in the photographs. Please refer to the photographs for the condition of the sculpture and its accessories. Important Information 1. About the Interior Display Images Images showing the artwork displayed in an interior setting have been virtually created to illustrate how the piece may look when displayed indoors. The artwork itself has not been edited or altered in these images. For the actual size of the artwork, please refer to the dimensions stated in the description. For its color and actual condition, please refer to the photographs taken directly of the artwork itself. 2. Shipping to Italy Shipments to Italy may be subject to additional inspections at the discretion of the Italian customs authorities. Any costs arising from such inspections will be the responsibility of the buyer. Additional inspections may also cause delays in customs clearance and delivery. Please be aware of these possibilities before purchasing. 3. Shipping, Import Duties, and Customs Clearance The item will be carefully packaged and shipped via DHL or Japan Post. The usual delivery time is approximately 1–2 weeks, although customs procedures and local delivery conditions may cause delays. Import duties, taxes, customs clearance fees, and any other related charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. Any such charges incurred in the destination country are the responsibility of the buyer. If the item is returned due to refusal to pay import duties, taxes, or other customs-related charges, refusal to accept delivery, or failure to complete the required customs procedures, the buyer will be responsible for all costs associated with the return and reshipment of the item. Please ensure that you understand and accept these conditions.