This is a type of dragon called "Mizuchi," represented in a meticulously crafted incense burner. Despite its small size, the vibrant, glossy blue celadon glaze can be seen. On the bottom, there is an inscription that reads "Seikoku.
龍の一種である蛟(みずち)と、唐草文を透彫であらわした精巧な香炉。小品ながら、みずみずしい青磁釉の発色が見られる。底裏には｢欽古｣の刻銘がある。
View the original at Japan Search →A national statute written for one city. Article 1 recites the beauty of Kyoto and its historically, culturally and artistically important position in the world, and gives two purposes: to raise international culture and serve the ideal of permanent world peace, and to contribute to the economic recovery of Japan. It was passed five years after the war ended.
The cool part. Article 3 lets Kyoto designate culture tourism preservation districts and, by ordinance, prohibit building, rebuilding, removal, changes to the shape of the land and the cutting of bamboo, trees and stone, with compensation for ordinary loss. Then Article 4 does something statutes almost never do. It places a duty on the mayor personally: in the spirit of local autonomy, and with the cooperation of residents, the mayor must engage in ceaseless activity to complete the city. Nara received its own Act, number 250, the day before.
Verify at e-Gov 法令検索 →Use it Two-colour foil on uncoated stock gets you most of this at production cost.
Description source: museum curator text, translated — not generated