Guest Picks: Year of the Dragon
20 ways to celebrate the Chinese Zodiac's animal sign for 2012
According to the Chinese Zodiac, 2012 is the Year of the Dragon. With the dragon being both beautiful and symbolically rich (it is the ultimate auspicious symbol signifying success and happiness), what better decorative element is there to add to your home this year? These stylish dragon-related finds will hopefully enhance your household with good luck throughout the year.
— Lauren from Fourth Floor Walk Up
— Lauren from Fourth Floor Walk Up
Dragon Napkins
Adding these beautifully embroidered napkins to any table setting will add a bit of Chinese flair.
Year of the Dragon 2012 Imperial Dragon by Brazen Design Studio
A moderately priced piece of wall art is a great way to bring in the dragon flare. This print is a reproduction of an original sumi-e (Japanese brush painting) that boasts beautiful lines and brushstrokes.
Amazing Large Convex Mirror with Dragon
While you typically find convex, circular or oval mirrors with eagles on the top, this mirror has a dragon, which is just divine.
Asian Fabric
This beautiful Chiang Mai Dragon fabric by Schumacher was originally derived from a 1920s Art Deco–era block print. I can picture the textile of today used on throw pillows with red fringe. Better yet, it would be so chic in pinch-pleat curtains hung on large brass rods.
Luna Metal Wall Covering
Luna by Studio E is a hand-painted metallic wallpaper. Its stunning finish is a great way to subtly evoke the scales of a dragon.
Large Dragon Candle
You cannot have a nod to the dragon without a flame. This chic candle's pink champagne scent is just begging to be lit. When the smell is gone and the flame has faded, it has the potential to become a practical vessel.
Off White Shanghai Dragon Ottoman
I think that everyone should have at least one garden stool in their home. This classic shape is enhanced by the dragons in relief, and the pearly white paint is reminiscent of the mythical animal's precious pearl.
Pair of Chinese Crackleware Vases, as Lamps
These antique lamps are chic and timeless in shape. One of them also happens to have tiny dragons for handles.
Chinese Dragon
The white color of this figural dragon allows for its sculptural details to be the focus. It's a great object for a console table in an entryway, as it casts good luck on those who pass by.
Woven Legend Earth Tone Dragon Area Rug
This handwoven rug with its rich colors and silky textures would make a beautiful addition to a feminine dressing room.
Asian Corbels
This unfinished corbel invites a world of interpretation as it could be used in many applications, from an outside architectural element to a statement interior piece. I can only imagine how stunning it would be in gold leaf.
Grande 19th Century Chinese Lantern
I love Chinese-style lanterns, and this one with its elegant lines and frosted glass would make a beautiful light fixture in a foyer or vestibule.
Dynasty 5 Piece Place Setting
The Wedgwood Dynasty collection makes for a classic place setting that will be timelessly chic. It's a grand setting for dinner parties and for adding a splash of color to any table.
Cirque Chinois Breakfast Cup and Saucer
One of my favorite Tiffany & Co. china collections is the Cirque Chinois collection. These porcelain pieces are all hand-painted Limoges porcelain by the Tiffany Paris studio. It's luxury in a cup!
Chinoiseries
This book is a beautifully illustrated resource for inspiration and education about the fantastic details of Chinoiseries.
Pair of Huge Vintage Chinese Ginger Jars
These massive, matching ginger jars with painted dragons are large enough to make a bold statement, but still classic in shape and color.
Rosewood Dragon Crown Oval Mirror
Oval and round mirrors are one of my favorite decorative accents. This one featuring dragons on its crown is a great way to pull in some chinoiserie elements.
Vintage Imperial Clawfoot Soaking Tub
This reproduction of the 19th century clawfoot tub is a luxurious yet subtle way to add a dragon to your home.
Dragon Medallion
This dragon medallion has the Chinese character for "double happiness." It would make a striking accent on any console table.
Natori "Harmoni" Bed Linens
I love the combination of textures, embroidery and pearlescent tones that make this dragon bedding so luscious.
Foulards VP 681 02 Wallpaper
This wallpaper is so chic. I love the complementary colors of coral and turquoise.
Next: 20 Asian-Inspired Finds
Next: 20 Asian-Inspired Finds