Antique gilt bronze imperial dragon with crystal ball. Gilt bronze cast carved in resembled a Imperial five claws dragon, standing on four legs, with head facing upward, the mouth bare the fangs, its tail curved next to rear left leg, with detail of scales and flaming rounded the body. Vigorous tongue panhandle upward to chase a crystal pearl ball. Dragon is the symbol of the Emperor, the Son of Heaven, eternity, Yang and Yin, male vigor and fecundity, and pearls have been found in Chinese freshwater rivers from ancient times. The shiny translucent quality has long been associated with the moon. Legends consider pearls to originate from the moon which is sometimes known as Yemingzhute ‘night shining pearl’. A pearl was once placed in the mouth of the deceased. Dragons are often shown chasing a pearl from the legend that the phases of the moon are due to a dragon eating it. In this case the pearl may represent wisdom. As the pearl lies hidden inside an unprepossessing dark shell of a mussel, it also symbolizes hidden beauty or talent. It is one of the eight jewels of Buddhism, in this form it may be surrounded with flames to denote its magical powers. The Amazing condition with a natural patina giving this piece an unforgettable appearance. The plaques split in the middle section, and fitted perfectly upon each other. There is a light grey patina noted in several creases. The bronze is bright and lustrous as the light is easily reflected from the well-polished surfaces.Measurements: Height: 16-5/8" Width: 15-1/2" Crystal Diametetr: 5-1/2"