Magnificent is a bit of an understatement for this stately vessel. Acquired from a Chinese family estate in Connecticut, this piece dates to the mid-1880s.
The design of dragon handles and the foo / fu dog on top is stunning and quite rare. Vented lid. There was some repair done to the foo dog / lion a number of years back., but it is not noticeable.
Champlevé is a Chinese enameling technique that started in the 5th Century. The process involves carving or chiseling of a bronze vessel followed by enamel being placed in the depressions . . . then, followed by firing and then grinding/polishing.
In this piece, some of the casting depressions are enamel filled. Some areas are painted and fired.
For the Serious Collector. Stands not included. Circa 1880s. 20″ tall with lid (14″ without lid) x 12.5″ at widest