There is a tremendous sense of movement in this diminutive dragon decoration—once used as a fi

There is a tremendous sense of movement in this diminutive dragon decoration—once used as a finial for a hairpin or other small object.  The beast’s ears and whiskers sail backward, as though confronting a powerful wind. The auspicious animal narrows his eyes and bares a set of fiercely sharp teeth. The sophistication of Goryeo-period metalwork is evident in the elaborate golden scales and expressiveness of the dragon, which represented balance in nature, and the authority and power of Korean Kings. Posted by Joan CumminsFinial in the Shape of a Dragon Head, 14th century. Gold, overall: 1 5/8 x ½ x 5/16 in. Brooklyn Museum -- source link

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