Finial in the Shape of a Dragon Head
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Object Label
The original purpose of this elaborately executed gold ornament is unclear. To judge from its size and the way it curves upward, the dragon head may have decorated the end of a hairpin.
Caption
Finial in the Shape of a Dragon Head, 14th century. Gold, overall: 1 5/8 x 1/2 x 5/16 in. (4.2 x 1.2 x 0.8 cm) Height: 1 5/8 in. (4.2 cm) Width: 1/2 in. (1.2 cm) Depth: 5/16 in. (0.8 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Purchase gift of Mr. and Mrs. A. B. Martin, 84.36. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Collection
Collection
Title
Finial in the Shape of a Dragon Head
Date
14th century
Dynasty
Goryeo Dynasty
Geography
Place made: Korea
Medium
Gold
Classification
Dimensions
overall: 1 5/8 x 1/2 x 5/16 in. (4.2 x 1.2 x 0.8 cm) Height: 1 5/8 in. (4.2 cm) Width: 1/2 in. (1.2 cm) Depth: 5/16 in. (0.8 cm)
Credit Line
Purchase gift of Mr. and Mrs. A. B. Martin
Accession Number
84.36
Frequent Art Questions
Why is this dragon so little?
This little dragon head used to be attached to a hairpin!Known as a "finial" it was decorative attachment to add visual interest and meaning. The dragon symbolized balance in nature, and the authority and power of Korean kings.
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