Researchers reveal mummified dragon is actually a Japanese marten
- Research has determined that what was believed to be a mummified dragon is actually a female Japanese marten.
- The remains were discovered by shogun Yoshinori Ashikaga in 1429 while visiting a temple in Nara, Japan.
- This finding highlights the significance of historical artifacts and the need for scientific investigation to understand their true nature.
In Japan's Nara, the Shosoin Treasure House houses a mummified specimen, long thought to be a dragon. This remains was discovered in 1429 by the shogun Yoshinori Ashikaga during his visit to the Todai-ji temple. Ashikaga encountered a monk who described a sun-dried object resembling a small dragon. Intrigued by the claim, the shogun preserved the peculiar remains, which have since been a mystery. Recent research, utilizing x-ray technology and radiocarbon dating, determined that this supposed dragon was, in fact, a female Japanese marten that lived in the 11th or 12th centuries. Researchers detailed how the animal likely entered the temple premises, eventually dying and becoming mummified. Its forelegs were missing, contributing to its dragon-like appearance. Interestingly, folklore states that rain would occur whenever the skeleton’s repository was opened, an anecdote that researchers experienced firsthand during their investigations as they faced heavy downpours traveling from Tokyo to Nara. Mami Tsuru, a conservationist, confirmed the link between the mummified remains and historical accounts, underscoring the significance of the Shosoin repository in preserving such artifacts. The findings highlight how legend influenced perceptions of the creature, which many assumed to be a dragon due to its unusual form. The marten's preserved state offers insight into the natural history and cultural contexts of the time. The discovery not only debunks the mythical status of the mummified remains, but also emphasizes the importance of scientific investigation in unraveling historical mysteries. This case illustrates a broader theme in how ancient artifacts are sometimes enveloped in myth and folklore, which can overshadow their true nature and origin. In preserving and examining these objects meticulously, researchers like Tsuru aim to shed light on their actual historical and environmental contexts, thus contributing to a greater understanding of Japan’s rich cultural heritage.