Chinese Republic Nine Dragon Cloisonne Enamel Brass Charger of Monumental Scale

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About the Item

A monumental Chinese Republic cloisonne enamel on metal charger depicting the story of the Nine Dragons. Measuring just over thirty inches in diameter and just under four inches in height, this beautifully detailed and richly colored charger (or plate, tray, dish) is a feast for the senses. The story of the Nine Dragons starts like this on the Love To Know website, "In ancient China, dragons were not just an important symbol, but they represented the bloodline of Chinese royalty. Throughout ancient China, dragons are depicted in temple architecture and numerous artifacts. Considered by the modern western world to be dragon myths, ancient Chinese history contradicts this view." But wait, there's more. Let's find out about the connection between dragons and emperors. "The ancient China dragons were considered gods. This historical symbol, dating sometime around 5,000 BC, became the crest of the Chinese emperor. Only the emperor was allowed to use the dragon symbol. Ancient Chinese emperors laid claim that they were descendants of the dragon gods. This bloodline became an ethnic claim that gave individuals a highly revered status. To perpetuate this status, the emperors built temples and shrines in honor of the dragon gods. To further the exaltation of this status symbol, they commissioned pagodas built throughout the country and established the practice of burning incense and offering prayers to the dragon gods." Fascinating stuff to be sure! Now, let's get into these nine dragons! "In Chinese culture, nine is the sacred number of the emperor. It was believed that the dragon king could change into nine different dragon forms... there are only nine different types of dragons depicted that the dragon king shifted into in order to serve the world. The Horned Dragon was the giver of rain. The Winged Dragon had dominion over the wind. The Celestial Dragon was the protector of heavenly mansions of gods. The Spirit or Spiritual Dragon blessed the earth with rain and wind. The Earth Dragon was the god of lakes, rivers and seas. The Dragon of Hidden Treasures or Underworld Dragon served as the guardian of hidden treasures such as gems, gold and other precious metals. The Coiled or Coiling Dragon dwelled in the waters of the lakes and oceans, guarding these bodies of water. The Yellow Dragon emerged from water to bestow the art of writing to Emperor Fu Shi. The Dragon King was the god of the wind and sea and all four directions, east, west, north, and south. The significance of the number nine continues throughout Chinese mythology and culture. In ancient Chinese dragon mythology, it's said that the dragon king had nine sons after copulating with different animals, creating hybrids. Each son was sent into the world with specific duties as the heir protectors of Earth and its people. While there seems to be an inconsistency in the actual names of the nine sons, their physical attributes and missions are always the same. Ba Xia : The tortoise dragon was exceptionally strong, and his likeness is found in book holders and other stone objects that support weight. Chi Wen: This beast-looking dragon son was known to swallow up all kinds of things, especially flood waters. The likeness is found in palace architecture to ward off fires. Pu Lao: This son was a small dragon but was known as the noisemaker since he loved to hear his own roar. This dragon image is used on bell handles. Bi An: The tiger dragon had the ability to see inside men's souls and knew instantly who was good and who was evil. This coveted discernment is depicted in the dragon's likeness in statues and motifs found in government buildings, prisons, and courthouses. Qiu Niu: This dragon son loved music. Its likeness is found as a motif decoration on stringed instruments. Fu Xi: This hornless dragon son loved books and literature. His image is found on libraries and even embossed on book bindings. Ya Zi: Known for his short-temper and love for fighting, this dragon son's likeness is carved on the hilt of swords, knives, battle axes, and other weapons. Suan Ni: This dragon son was covered in flames, something he enjoyed doing especially creating fire and smoke. This dragon likeness is often used in front of homes for protection. It's also used as an incense burners motif. Chao Feng: The fearless lion dragon was a risk-taker and always observed the world from high places. This dragon likeness is used as embellishments on roof corners, especially in ancient palace architecture." P.S. the mandarin is not included.

Dimensions:
Height: 3.75 in (9.53 cm)Diameter: 30.5 in (77.47 cm)
Materials and Techniques:
Brass,Enamel,Metal
Place of Origin:
China
Period:
Early 20th Century
Date of Manufacture:
1930's
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use. In good vintage / antique condition with age appropriate wear.
Seller Location:
Atlanta, GA
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU7240235552432

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