Reptilian in appearance, able to fly, and possessing supernatural powers, dragons were also said to be vigilant guardians of fair maidens, treasures, and villages. The age-old mythical creature, depicted in a wide array of configurations, is featured in this striking collection of original designs. Scores of black-and-white images of the powerful monster-all permission-free- are based on motifs from fairy tale collections, medieval French and Celtic manuscripts, Japanese and Chinese artwork, and other rare sources. Depicted are smoke-and-fire-breathing dragons, scaly creatures of the sea, powerful beasts endangering the lives of mariners, Celtic dragons with interwoven body parts, and much more. (from the publisher)