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Gangjin Tomb: Vessel with Nine Dragons
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Gangjin Tomb: Vessel with Nine Dragons
SOUTH KOREA, South Jeolla; Goryeo dynasty (918–1392); Stoneware; H: 33.5 cm; Museum Yamato Bunkakan, Nara, Japan
This celadon vessel was excavated from Gangjin Tomb in South Jeolla. The depiction of nine lively dragon heads represents the nine dragons which spouted out water when Prince Siddhartha was born. The vessel is covered with the bodies of the dragons, and their heads are vibrantly portrayed with horns, large eyes, and wide open mouths. Each head has its mouth lifted upwards as if spouting water. The large dragon at the top is particularly stunning; the scales and crest on its neck stand out vividly, and it has prominent whiskers and long curved wings behind the ears. |
