Figure of a Dragon
1750-1850 (made)
| Artist/Maker | |
| Place of origin |
The production of articulated metal animals in Japan began in the 18th century when traditional metalworkers (who normally produced arms and armour) turned some of their skills to more peaceful activities. The Myochin family were well-known in this trade. Their activities are documented back to the 16th century, although they liked to trace their ancestry back to almost mythological times. The techniques required for the manufacture of strong and flexible armour were well suited to the production of realistic moveable animal figures, such as this dragon. These moveable figures are known in Japanese as Jizai Okimono.
Object details
| Categories | |
| Object type | |
| Materials and techniques | Patinated iron, with areas of gilding |
| Brief description | Figure of dragon, articulated wrought iron and copper gilt, by Miochin Nobumasa, Japan, 1750-1850 |
| Physical description | Figure of a dragon made of articulated iron and copper gilt. Signed Myochin Nobumasa. |
| Dimensions |
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| Style | |
| Gallery label | DRAGON
Articulated wrought iron and copper, gilt
Japan; mid 16th century
M.37-1947
In the figure of a dragon, signed 'Miochin Nobumasa'.(07/1994) |
| Summary | The production of articulated metal animals in Japan began in the 18th century when traditional metalworkers (who normally produced arms and armour) turned some of their skills to more peaceful activities. The Myochin family were well-known in this trade. Their activities are documented back to the 16th century, although they liked to trace their ancestry back to almost mythological times. The techniques required for the manufacture of strong and flexible armour were well suited to the production of realistic moveable animal figures, such as this dragon. These moveable figures are known in Japanese as Jizai Okimono. |
| Bibliographic reference | Hull-Grundy, A. Japanese Articulated Iron Animals. Oriental Art. 1958, IV, No.4. fig.4. |
| Collection | |
| Accession number | M.37-1947 |
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| Record created | February 25, 2003 |
| Record URL |
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