Okimono - Elephant ivory, Marine ivory - Grande Kannon con drago Watatsumi (海神, "dio del mare") Alato - Firmato Watatsumi - Japan - Meiji period (1868-1912)

Okimono in marine ivory in sections depicting the goddess Kannon supported in flight by dragon touching the sea waves. Rare representation with excellent dimensions in the classic stance with the hands open and showing the palms, and richly dressed with dangling jewellery. The dragon Watatsumi (海神, "god of the sea") or Ryūjin (龍神, "dragon god") was the ruler of the seas and oceans and is described as a dragon able to assume a human form. He lived in the submarine area Ryūgū-jō (龍宮, "castle of the dragons") , where he kept magical jewellery. Weight: 2,370 g Good condition - the left wing of the dragon is shortened - natural ivory veins - opening under the base - see photos The lot will be carefully packaged and shipped within 1 or at most 2 business days from the day of payment. The shipping price includes delivery via UPS, TNT, DHL or SDA courier (depending on destination address) with full insurance and professional packaging. Original certificate compiled by Luca Mastromauro, an expert in Japanese art, registered with the Milan Chamber of Commerce (number: 2617) , which will be sent with the lot. Included with the item is a copy of the certificate of antiquity conforming with the international CITES regulations, issued by CESAR, a centre of Archaeometric studies with offices in London, Milan and Rome. The original is only available upon request. This item cannot be sold to buyers outside the EU.