Bidspirit auction | This traditional oiled paper parasol

This traditional oiled paper parasol is constructed in the style of a Japanese wagasa or bangasa. The hand-painted paper canopy is decorated with a motif of two five-clawed dragons chasing a flaming pearl amidst stylised clouds and waves. The dragons are executed in shades of grey-blue with red highlights. The canopy is supported by bamboo ribs and stretchers finished in a dark reddish-brown oxblood-coloured lacquer. The interior features elaborate white decorative thread bracing around the wooden runner and hub. The shaft is crafted from natural bamboo and is fitted with a black fabric cap at the crown. An incised numeral 4 is visible on the sliding wooden runner. Length (closed): 75 cm.