Zentner Collection: Antique Japanese Tansu, Asian Works of Art
Low rectangular Korean Inlaid table depicting a swirling 4-toed dragon with gold swirling inlaid whimsical clouds. Overall very good condition consistent with age. Brown lacquer over card wood body.
It was said that whoever could wield the yeouiju was blessed with the abilities of omnipotence and creation at will, and that only four-toed dragons (who had thumbs with which to hold the orbs) were both wise and powerful enough to wield these orbs, as opposed to the lesser, three-toed dragons.
Korean mythology depicts dragons as being primarily benevolent beings related to water and agriculture, often considered bringers of rain and clouds. Hence, many Korean dragons are said to have resided in rivers, lakes, oceans, or even deep mountain ponds.
Late 19th - Early 20th Century

Dimensions: 39 1/2" long X 21 1/2" wide X 13 1/2" high
SOLD
item #1426227