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)
Carved mizuchi heads can be seen on the railings of old temples.
Rare kanji spelling for a carved mizuchi head ornament. 蛟 is a mythical water dragon.
Variant using katakana チ for the first character; attested but very rare.
Alternate kanji spelling using 螭 (hornless dragon); attested but very rare.
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.