Ceremonial stand from the Qianlong period (1736-1795) in the shape of a dragon

This small and exquisite Chinese Canton Qianlong period enamel square dish features cut corners and is beautifully decorated with a five-clawed pink dragon surrounded by 18 blue ruyi clouds against a vibrant yellow background. The design is accented by two branches of peaches (or similar fruit) and two branches of peach blossoms (or other fruit blossoms), all framed by an intricate seaweed pattern border. In Chinese symbolism, five-clawed dragons are reserved exclusively for emperors, as the number five is considered sacred, representing the five elements. In contrast, four-clawed dragons are associated with kings, princes, and high-ranking officials, while three-clawed dragons are designated for the merchant class. This piece is crafted from enamel on brass, dating back to the Qianlong period (1736–1795), and is characterized by its hexagonal form and the distinctive Famille Rose palette, often referred to as "Canton enamel." Chinese painted enamel, commonly known as Canton enamel, derives its name from its principal manufacturing location, Canton. This technique was introduced to China in the 18th century, likely by French missionaries, and is inspired by the enameling techniques developed in Limoges, France around 1470. It is referred to in China as "foreign porcelain," suitable since much of it was made for export. During the 18th and 19th centuries, there was significant demand in the West for Chinese porcelain dinner sets...

A very attractive group of four 18th century Chinese export porcelain botanical plates apparently made for the French market, circa 1775. Each plate having a scalloped rim banded wit...

A Fantastic and large Japanese Meiji Period Patinated Bronze Centerpiece/Bowl/jar denier with Dragon in Relief. This captivating and exquisite, hand-crafted, patinated bronze centerpiece serves as a remarkable focal point, adorned with marvelously hand-chassed and hand-chiseled dragons in relief, gracefully emerging and disappearing behind artfully stylized scrolling etched clouds. The centerpiece boasts a substantial and graceful curved base, complemented by a striking peaked and square-edged lip atop the vessel. The significance behind the depiction of the three-clawed dragons stems from the Japanese belief that Eastern dragons originated within their native land. According to their folklore, as these majestic creatures ventured away from Japan, they acquired additional toes. The Japanese Sky dragon...

Meiji period (1868-1912) bronze, with removable top, stylized geometric shape and silver inlay. Signature reads: Miharu Kadayashi.

Antique hand-hammered metal bronze ceremonial pot "Lota" from India. Brass water pot with fluted design in the centre narrow neck with flat rim. In India Hindu...

A fine & rare antique Imperial Chinese Qing dynasty solid gold & cloisonne enamel snuff bottle, Qianlong mark & period, 1736-1795, tests as 16k gold. It is rare to find a cloisonné e...

A large pair of Meiji Period Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Double Dragon Vases, 19th century. Japanese cloisonne enamel dragon vases are highly ...

Suiteki, water dispenser, made of finely molded bronze in the shape of a gourd, with a snake coiled on one side. Signed Masayuki. Period: Edo 19th cent. Dimensions: 7 x 9 x 9 cm. ...

Chinese porcelain from the East India Company. Decoration called "Tobacco Leaf." Qianlong Reign (1736-1795). Wear and minor chips. Height: 15 cm.

Bronze Koro (Japanese incense burner) in the shape of a rooster Removable top.