Antique Japanese extremely fine articulated dragon, made of individually cast and incised segments of iron, shakudo eyes, every piece moves, very realistic rendering of a small dragon, body swivels and twists, head stays up on its own accord, so well executed it seems living, beautiful condition. With original tomobako signed, "property of (Emperor) Tsuchimikado, dated Tenai Geddei 31, c. 1781. Attributed to Myochin the famous armer maker. Size: 14 1/2" long appox (when head and neck extended)