Period:Southern Song dynasty (1127–1279)
Date:13th century
Culture:China 南宋
Medium:Carved black, red, and yellow lacquer
Dimensions:H. 3 in (7.6 cm); Diam. 9 5/8 in. (24.4 cm)
Classification:Lacquer
Credit Line:Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2015
Accession Number:2015.500.1.4a, b
Known as chi, the feline dragons that curve along the surface of this box were inspired by comparable creatures found on Bronze Age vessels, which were rediscovered during the Song dynasty and often reinterpreted in the arts of that period. Although they lack the large horns, prominent snouts, and scaled body of the typical Chinese depiction of the dragon, chi dragons are also regarded as auspicious and protective.