Dragon among Clouds

Currently not on view

Dragon among Clouds

Late 17th century

Attributed to Zhou Xun (Chinese)

In China, dragons are composite creatures. They have the heads of oxen crowned with deer horns, and long bodies covered with fish scales. They are considered rainmakers, and through their breath can form clouds in which to conceal themselves. The dragon shown here is largely obscured by clouds and playing with a pearl. Pearls are believed to be the symbol of thunder, which causes rain to fall. Electrical currents (lightening) are said to flow through a dragon's feet.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Dragon among Clouds

Date:

Late 17th century

Artist:

Attributed to Zhou Xun (Chinese)

Medium:

Ink on silk; mounted as a hanging scroll

Dimensions:

7 feet 3 3/16 inches × 44 1/8 inches (221.5 × 112 cm) Mount: 9 feet 5 3/4 inches × 50 13/16 inches (289 × 129 cm)

Classification:

Paintings

Credit Line:

Purchased with funds contributed by Edward B. Robinette from the Simkhovitch Collection, 1929

Accession Number:

1929-40-244

Geography:

Made in China, Asia

Context:

Dynasty: Qing Dynasty (1644-1911)

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Currently not on view