Antique Japanese wooden temple carving of a dragon in swirling clouds. Beautifully carved of heavy keyaki (zelkova elm) wood with intricate details. The large dragon clasps the sacred wish-granting pearl in one claw. Around him are billowing rivulets of clouds. Some of the details of his face are painted with red mineral pigment and his eyes are made of reverse painted glass. Dragons have long been used in Buddhist art symbolizing the endless cycle of transformation.

Age: Edo Period (1603-1867)

Dimensions: 16" high x 45" long