Flagstaff

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http://www.korea.net/kois/eng_si_read.asp?slide_no=107

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Flagstaff, Gilt Bronze Dragon Head, Korea



Unified Silla, Eighth-ninth century, Height 65.5cm
Gyeongju National Museum

This dragon head must have been the finial of a Buddhist temple flagstaff.
The mouth holds a large cintamani (wishfulfilling jewel), concealing a pulley that still works.
The upper lip is turned up in an "s" and the large eyes bulge behind it.
The neck is finely incised with scales, and a mane runs down the dragon's back.

국립경주박물관 - Gyeongju National Museum Korea

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Daruma Museum, Japan