dragon-head shape; dragon-head crest
Refers to an object shaped like a dragon's head, most famously a helmet crest (兜の前立て) in samurai armor. Also used for architectural ornaments or decorative motifs.
Dragon-head crests are often seen on the helmets of Sengoku-period warlords.
The pillars of this temple's bell tower are carved with dragon-head ornaments.
Compound of 龍 (たつ, 'dragon') and 頭 (かしら, 'head'). The reading たつ is an older native Japanese word for dragon, while かしら is a common word for head or top.