Lepec Dragon

One of the advantages of having a mobile device is that one can use it to research cool items in the MET (like dragons) and save which galleries they are located in into a list for later visits.   This dragon is a boxwood carving by Charles Lepec, from 1886/7. 

Technically, this is might be a wyvern; the hind legs aren't evident, although they could be hidden behind the portrait.  I like how the dragon's head is a cross between a boxer's and a cat's.  The wings are not natural, but they read that way; and the intricate carving on them excuses their artificiality.  I like the baroque feel of the carving, which still manages to have robust and aerodynamic qualities.  The heraldic pose of the dragon doesn't feel antique -- it looks like an animal one would more likely find on a carousel than on a knight's shield.  

Okay, and the tiny Eros on the dragon's sphere is just enough over-the-top Art Nouveau to enchant.

If I had the means, I would expand the frame, get rid of Eros, take this dragon, twin and mirror it, and then place a mirror in the free claws and tails.  If I was feeling particularly Victorian / allegorical,  I would name one dragon, "Vanity," and the other "Validation" and carve their names into their crowns.  Or possibly have miniature, exchangeable banners that read, "I'm Beautiful, Damn It!", "Beautiful Like Me,"  or simply, "Behold!"