Nara Itto-bori (One-Knife Carving) Eto (Chinese Zodiac) Ornament: Dragon (Small) Artist: Shinsen Current Suggested Retail Price: ¥11,000 Material: Camphor Wood Size (approx.): Height 6.5cm, Width 5cm, Depth 9.5cm "Shinsen's works combine the strength of tradition with a sensibility that embraces the present era. They are characterized by an elegance built upon meticulous processes and a warm texture that invites you to touch them." I purchased this piece after falling in love with it. It's the work of a female Itto-bori artist, and the dragon's form, which can sometimes be intimidating, is designed to be pleasantly cute. I displayed it for a year and had a very good year. It's unpainted wood, so there may be some aging, but it's in beautiful condition. The inside edge of the box has a small original chip, but it's not particularly noticeable and doesn't affect opening or closing. I was looking for Itto-bori carvings of only snakes and dragons, which aren't available on Spielform, and I chose this dragon. I'm gradually downsizing my seasonal decorations, and after much deliberation, I've decided to part with this one as well. This is a beautiful example of Japanese traditional craft. I hope to pass it on to someone who will continue to cherish it. Subject...Other Material...Wood Carving