Antique Natural Coral Dragon Immortal Sculpture with Glass Case Japanese Scholar Art

Finely carved natural coral sculpture depicting a Dragon Immortal, presented with wooden base and glass display case.

This dramatic sculptural composition depicts a Dragon Immortal (Ryū Sennin), carved entirely from natural coral and animated through extraordinary openwork technique. The form unfolds dynamically across space, with the dragon’s sinuous body coiling through clouds while the immortal figure emerges in harmony with the creature’s movement.

Natural coral has long been revered across East Asia as a material imbued with protective power, longevity, and auspicious energy. In scholar-art traditions, coral carvings such as this were prized not merely for material rarity, but for the challenge they posed to the carver: the necessity of responding to organic branching forms rather than imposing rigid symmetry.

The iconography of the Dragon Immortal draws from Daoist-influenced imagery transmitted into Japan, where sages and immortals are portrayed in communion with dragons—symbols of cosmic force, wisdom, and elemental control. This pairing suggests mastery of nature through spiritual cultivation rather than domination.

Technically, the carving demonstrates high-level control, particularly in the articulation of scales, whiskers, claws, and flowing appendages. The open negative space is handled with confidence, preserving structural integrity while achieving visual lightness. Such complexity indicates an accomplished workshop or master hand.

Presented on a fitted wooden stand and enclosed within a custom glass display case, the work was clearly intended as a refined interior object—suited for tokonoma display, scholar’s studio, or curated cabinet presentation.

Despite its delicacy, the sculpture shows no visually disruptive damage. Surface variation and subtle tonal shifts are consistent with genuine coral and affirm the natural origin of the material rather than later synthetic substitutes.

At approximately 7.2 cm in height and under 300 grams in weight, the sculpture achieves remarkable narrative density within a compact scale. It appeals to collectors of coral art, scholar objects, and mythological carving traditions alike.

Condition is assessed visually and reflects excellent preservation, with age-consistent characteristics and no apparent restorations.

Item dimensions:
Sculpture height ~7.2 cm
Width ~21 cm
Depth ~2.8 cm

Item weight:
Approx. 288.5 g (excluding case)

Colors:
Natural ivory coral tones

Materials:
Natural coral, wood base, glass display case

Origin country:
Japan

Period / era:
Late Edo to Meiji period (19th century)

Classification:
Antique

Condition rank:
Excellent (no visible losses)

Handling notes:
Glass case should be removed and packed separately within outer carton. Immobilize coral form with custom foam cradle.

Authenticity & Stewardship

Evaluated under the Japonista Authentication Framework™:

• Material, carving, and surface-study comparison
• Iconographic and stylistic verification
• Condition and stability review (surface integrity)
• Construction assessment and handling-risk evaluation

Guaranteed 100% Authentic. Covered by the Japonista Lifetime Authenticity Warranty™.

A Note on Stewardship and Collecting

At Japonista, we approach Buddhist statues, sacred images, and ritual objects not merely as collectibles, but as cultural and spiritual artifacts deserving of respect, understanding, and careful presentation. Every piece we offer is thoughtfully examined, researched, and curated with sensitivity to its origin, meaning, and historical role.

Our role is not only to offer access to rare and meaningful objects, but to serve as responsible custodians—connecting the right works with collectors who value depth, intention, and authenticity.

Inquiries, Availability, and Private Consideration

Some of the cultural and heritage works may allow room for discussion, while others are held firmly due to rarity, condition, or cultural importance. All inquiries are reviewed personally and discreetly, and we welcome thoughtful questions or expressions of interest.

If you are exploring a particular theme, deity, lineage, or period—or seeking guidance in building a focused collection—our concierge team is always available to assist with quiet expertise and care.

Concierge Support & Collector Guidance

Japonista Concierge™ provides personalized assistance for collectors seeking deeper understanding, thoughtful acquisition, or long-term curation strategies. Whether your interest is devotional, scholarly, or aesthetic, we are here to help guide your journey with clarity and respect.

For select high-value or historically significant works, private reservation or structured payment arrangements may be available on a case-by-case basis. Please reach out to discuss eligibility and discreet options.

Before Proceeding

We kindly encourage collectors to review our shop policies and house guidelines, available through the links in our website footer, which outline shipping, handling, and conditions specific to vintage, sacred, and collectible works.

A Closing Note

Thank you for exploring Japonista’s collection of Oriental Cultural Heritage and arts. We are honored to share these meaningful works and to help place them where they may continue to be appreciated, studied, and respected.

If you have questions or wish to explore related works, please feel free to contact Japonista Concierge™ at any time.