Dragon and Lily

The full author’s title for this piece is “Dragon falls in love with the Lily.” This composition is not just an image, but a philosophical story about the union of two powerful symbols.
​Symbolism of the Dragon (竜, Ryū):
In Japanese mythology, the Dragon is not the Western fire-breathing monster, but one of the four celestial guardian deities. He is a powerful and benevolent kami (deity), a master of the water element: oceans, rivers, and rain. The Dragon is a symbol of:
​Elemental power and might, ​wisdom and protection, ​good fortune and prosperity.
​Symbolism of the Lily (百合, Yuri):
In Hanakotoba, the Japanese language of flowers, the Lily (especially the white shirayuri) is one of the most sublime symbols. It represents:
​purity and innocence, nobility and divine beauty, dignity.
​The Philosophy of the Work:
The concept “Dragon falls in love with the Lily” is a classic union of opposites (Yin and Yang) in Eastern philosophy. It is a story of how absolute elemental power (the Dragon) surrenders to and is captivated by pure, immaculate beauty (the Lily).
The reverse side shows the dragon’s tail coiling in “waves of passion.” This is a brilliant metaphor: the dragon, being the master of water, creates these waves not only in the sea but also within his soul. His passion is as powerful as the element he commands.
​Materials: Mammoth tusk, with an amber inlaid eye.
​​Size: 2 inches (≈5.1 cm) in diameter, 1/2 inch (≈1.3 cm) thick.
2006. Private collection, UK.