Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)The baluster body rising from the splayed foot to a waisted neck with foliate rim, carved in shallow relief with billowing clouds and crashing waves and inlaid with silver and gold to depict a fierce three-clawed dragon clutching a tama (magical pearl).HEIGHT 18 cmWEIGHT 972 gCondition: Very good condition with old wear and minor casting flaws, occasional light scratches, few small nicks.Provenance: French private collection.