noun
carved mizuchi head ornament
Rare architectural or decorative term referring to a carved head of a mizuchi (mythical water dragon). Likely encountered in historical or artistic contexts.
See also: 蛟 (みずち)
古い寺院の欄干には蛟首の彫刻が見られる。
Carved mizuchi heads can be seen on the railings of old temples.
みずち is the mythical water dragon itself; 蛟首 refers specifically to a carved representation of its head, often as an ornament.
Compound of 蛟 (mythical water dragon) and 首 (head). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the term is used in traditional Japanese architecture and art.