sword with case

sword with case , date unknown

Where object was made: Japan

Material/technique: lacquer; silk; wood; iron

Credit line: William Bridges Thayer Memorial

Accession number: 1928.2930.a,b

Not on display

Add to portfolio

If you wish to reproduce this image, please submit an image request

Images

Label texts

Exhibition Label:
"Pop Goes Godzilla," Sep-2004, Kyungwon Choe
This black lacquered scabbard is painted with a striking design of a red dragon sweeping across the surface. The body of the dragon extends down the length of the scabbard while the head faces back towards the tail, mouth agape in a fearsome roar. The sinuous body of the three-toed beast is outlined with fine gold lines, which are also used to describe the detailing in the scales, the sharp teeth and terrifying expression. In some areas a brighter red pigment is applied in long, trailing strokes atop the gold, resembling flames. The fire-breathing ability of dragons is an element also found in the monster imagery of popular films like Godzilla.