This is a hand-carved wooden netsuke featuring a dragon wrapped around a gourd.
It is carved from natural wood cliff cypress.
The dragon is an auspicious creature in many cultures, symbolizing power, protection, and good fortune.
The piece comes displayed on a brass claw stand.
Historically, netsuke were developed in 17th century Japan for a practical purpose. Men wearing traditional kimonos, which lacked pockets, used netsuke as toggles to secure sagemono (small personal items like money pouches or tobacco containers) suspended by cords from their hip sashes (obi).
Today, these items are highly valued as decorative art pieces or collectibles due to their intricate craftsmanship and historical significance.
Measures Approximately: 3" long x 2" wide
Stand Measures Approximately: 2" high