Early 20th Century Chinese Carved Wood 'Dragon' Wall Hanging

Description

Large unusual antique Chinese hand-carved wood circular panel decorated in relief carving with two ferocious and mighty dragons chasing each … more Large unusual antique Chinese hand-carved wood circular panel decorated in relief carving with two ferocious and mighty dragons chasing each other amid flame and auspicious clouds, converted from a possible tabletop panel with the rear showing the original mortises used for joints, early 20th century, period of the Republic, in overall good condition with reasonable wear, wood degradation, discoloration, and minor losses to the surface and edges, acquired in Connecticut
Zhangmu (樟木 camphor wood)
29 1/2 in. diameter, 3/4 in. thick

- The dragon traditionally symbolizes potent and auspicious powers, particularly control over water, rainfall, typhoons, and floods. They are also a symbol of power, strength, and good luck for people who are worthy of it in East Asian culture. During the days of Imperial China, the Emperor of China usually used the dragon as a symbol of his imperial strength and power. In Chinese culture, excellent and outstanding people are compared to a dragon. The impression of dragons in a large number of Asian countries has been influenced by Chinese culture, such as in Korea, Vietnam, and Japan. Chinese tradition has always used the dragon totem as the national emblem, and the "Yellow Dragon flag" of the Qing dynasty has influenced the impression that China is a dragon in many European countries. less