Japan, 19th century, late Edo period (1615-1868) to earlier Meiji period (1868-1912)The dragon is cast in full detail with his typical scale armor, three sharp claws to each of his four paws, a thorn spine and two forked horns. The bell is upside down and therefore can serve as a container.HEIGHT 59 cmWEIGHT 12.3 kilogramsCondition: Excellent condition with some wear, mostly to base of feet, and some traces of use. The patina has grown into a deep brown color with nuances of copper-red and lustrous finish. Very minor losses to few of the tips of the thorns.Provenance: British collection.