Skip to Main Content

Due to required maintenance, some galleries and artwork may be off view. Learn more.

Open today: 10am-5pm

1662-1722

Vase with Design of Two Four-Clawed Dragons over Waves Pursuing a Pearl

Artist/maker unknown

Image 1 of 21 / 2

According to Chinese tradition, dragons ascend from the seas to bring life-giving rain to the earth. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, four-clawed dragons represented nobility of lower status than the emperor and his close family.

This record is part of an ongoing effort to share accurate and evolving information. If you notice anything we should improve, we welcome your feedback at [email protected]

Images on this site are shared for educational use. For image rights, permissions, or to learn more about image rights and access, email [email protected]