About This Piece A small bronze ornament designed to be enjoyed as a pair of dragons in two different sizes, distinguished by their stylized circular forms and gold-and-black scales set against a subdued blue-green surface. Design and Craftsmanship This is a Takaoka Bronze Ware (高岡銅器) work in bronze by the sculptor Sōtarō Saegusa (三枝惣太郎). The composition consists of two dragons of different sizes, each with its body boldly simplified into a large circular form. From this circle rises a slender, elongated neck leading to the head, creating a distinctive stylized design characteristic of Sōtarō Saegusa. Rather than depicting the dragons in a strictly realistic manner, their forms are simplified into broad circles and slender curves while retaining recognizable features such as the horns, whiskers, and scales. The larger and smaller dragons share the same basic design, and when displayed together their heads turn inward toward one another. The front of each circular body is divided into radiating sections filled with scales rendered in gold and black. These colors form a clear decorative accent against the blue-green bronze. Color and Surface The overall finish is predominantly blue-green, reminiscent of the appearance of ancient bronze. Areas of the underlying surface remain visible in places, giving the finish a varied rather than uniformly colored appearance. Gold and black scales decorate the front of both dragons, creating a shared visual element across the pair. About the Artist and Takaoka Bronze Ware This Takaoka Bronze Ware (高岡銅器) bronze work was created by the sculptor Sōtarō Saegusa (三枝惣太郎). The dragons display Saegusa's characteristic stylized approach, with their forms reduced to bold circular bodies and long, slender necks, while the two different sizes are united by the same design. A plaque bearing the inscription “Sculptor Sōtarō Saegusa” (彫刻家 三枝惣太郎) and a seal is included. Dragon Motif in Japanese Culture Dragons have long been closely associated with water and rain in Japanese culture. In Japanese dragon-deity traditions, dragons have been revered in connection with water and rainfall and have also been associated with prayers for abundant harvests and protection. Designs featuring two dragons are sometimes referred to as Sōryū (双龍, “Twin Dragons”), while dragons facing one another may be described as Mukai-ryū (向かい龍, “Facing Dragons”). Here, the larger and smaller dragons can be displayed together with their heads turned inward toward one another. The familiar Japanese dragon motif is presented as a compact pair of decorative objects suitable for enjoying in a domestic setting. Accessories A black display base and a plaque bearing the name and seal of sculptor Sōtarō Saegusa are included. Both the plaque and the display base are made of plastic. Important Information 1. About the Interior Display Images Images showing the artwork displayed in an interior setting have been created virtually to illustrate how the piece may appear 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 showing the artwork itself directly. 2. Shipping to Italy Depending on the decision of the Italian customs authorities, the shipment may be subject to additional inspection, and any costs associated with such inspection will be the responsibility of the buyer. Additional inspection may also cause delays in customs clearance and delivery. Please make your purchase with an understanding of these possibilities. 3. Shipping, Import Duties, and Customs Clearance The item will be carefully packed and shipped via DHL or Japan Post. The usual delivery time is approximately 1–2 weeks, although delivery may take longer depending on customs procedures and local delivery conditions. Import duties, taxes, customs clearance fees, and any other charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. Any such charges incurred locally are the responsibility of the buyer. If the item is returned because of 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 the costs associated with the return and reshipment. Thank you for your understanding.