Preliminary identification

Mid-Century Carved Dragon Brooch

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

An intricate dragon carving featuring a sinuous, serpentine body and distinctive red-set eyes. This piece appears to be crafted from either bovine bone or an early synthetic like celluloid, designed to mimic…

Story

The dragon has served as the ultimate symbol of cosmic energy and imperial power in East Asian culture for over two millennia. During the mid-20th century, a fascination with 'The Orient' swept through Western fashion, leading to a massive demand for…

Maker / Origin

While likely produced in an anonymous workshop in an export hub like Yokohama or Canton, these pieces were the work of skilled artisans who specialized in 'miniature arts.'

Condition & Value

The carving appears crisp with no visible chips to the delicate tail or whiskers. The red eyes appear intact, which is excellent as these small inlays are frequently lost over time. The value would be significantly impacted if the pin mechanism on the reverse is damaged or replaced. Condition is generally very good for its age.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD