K18 Gold Dragon Ornament with Red Agate — Sculptural Ryuu Dragon, High-Luster Finish — 260.3 g

Overview & Cultural Context

A dragon rendered in precious metal is never merely decor. The ryuu motif carries the language of moving power—protection, momentum, and auspicious flow—so the object reads as atmosphere-setter as much as sculpture.

This piece is marked K18 and carries substantial precious-metal weight (approx. 260.3 g), giving it a rare dual identity: display-grade presence with intrinsic material value. The form performs under light, with high-luster finishing that animates the relief as viewing angles change.

A red agate accent adds deliberate contrast and symbolic vitality. One red bead is described as rotating, reinforcing the idea of “circulating fortune” while also indicating a separate, constructed element rather than paint imitation.

Material, Technique & Artistic Character

K18 indicates an 18k gold alloy chosen for luxury finish and structural strength. It takes a fine polish, holds crisp relief, and is practical for detailed protrusions such as claws, horns, and whisker-like ridges.

Textural contrast—raised scale work against smoother planes—prevents the figure from reading as a single reflective mass. Minor surface variation and micro-wear are consistent with real handling and are typical for high-polish gold objects.

Iconography & Symbolic Function

The dragon is traditionally read as a guardian and regulator of flow. In interior placement, this translates into entrances, storage zones, or workspaces—areas where protection and continuity are desired.

The red agate detail functions as a focal point, punctuating the gold field and adding the language of vitality and warding energy.

Why Collectors Buy This

• Intrinsic value you can feel: the weight and K18 mark provide a measurable value floor.
• Immediate presence: high-polish gold becomes a focal object without needing large scale.
• Symbol that travels well: dragon meaning is legible across cultures.
• Gift-grade impact: precious metal plus auspicious iconography reads as a major gesture.
• Display versatility: compact footprint with high visual density.

Key Facts

• Object type: K18 gold dragon ornament (ryuu motif) with stone accent
• Material: 18k gold alloy (K18 mark noted); red agate accent (per listing)
• Dimensions: approx. 4.55 × 9.37 cm
• Weight: approx. 260.3 g
• Condition: grade B (visible wear; minor discoloration / surface variation noted)
• Included: no accessories indicated

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 sacred 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 Buddhist statues, sacred art, and spiritual artifacts. 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.