Chinese Metalwork

Fine Qing Dynasty Chinese Silver Dragon Box – Late 19th Century Description: An exquisite antique Chinese silver box from the late Qing Dynasty, sho...

A fine signed antique Chinese silver box. In solid silver. By Yang Qing He of Shanghai, active in the late 19th Century. Engraved to both the body and the lid with a dragon and a ...

A vintage Russian Orthodox silver-tone priest's cross. The front side is decorated with a relief depiction of Jesus Christ. Inscription in Church Slavo...

Antique Chinese cloisonné enamel round box with lid depicting floral patterns all around, blue, yellow, pink, yellow, and red flowers and leaves, cyan, green and yellow leaves, 19th ...

Presenting a supper large and beautiful Chinese cloisonné enamel egg with intricated patterns of "hundred birds" made by hand seating on a tripod bronze stand, from the Mid-20th Cent...

Large Chinese Cloisonne enamel bowl, Qing Dynasty Exceptional and finely decorated Chinese cloisonne punch bowl with gilt metal foot and rim. The bowl has slightly flaring sides ...

A Chinese enamel over brass vase. It has a classic, rounded body that tapers to a narrow neck. Adorned with polychrome enamel in foliage and floral motifs made in the Cloisonne techn...

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 pair of beautiful bronze warrior motif knockers. The mythical warrior has large bulging eyes above wide open mouth. Curly hair surrounding the face, repeated in the eye brows which flanks the prominent forehead. Heavy cheekbones echoes the forehead, highlighting his masculine feature. Antiqued finish with mellow gold patina. Fantastic as door knockers or hand towel rings...

A fine antique late 18th century Chinese archaic style bronze censer with a Xuande mark. The censer made of cast bronze is very finely modeled, the flared mouth with a key pattern, t...

By the 18th century, opium use had become as central to Chinese social life as taking tea or smoking tobacco, fostering a subculture rich with its own customs, traditions, and exquis...

A fine pair antique Chinese Qing cloisonne standing Kylin Dragon figures with fine enamel detailing dating from the latter 19th century or possibly earlier. The standing figures have...

Despite common belief that water pipes such as these were used to smoke opium, water pipes such as these were more commonly used for smoking Tobacco. The h...

Fine Vintage silver Dragon beaker A silver beaker with curling dragon and finely engraved geometric designs Description: This finely crafted silver beaker features a dramatic c...

A Monumental Gilt-Lacquered Bronze Ornamental Buddha Sculpture of Vajravidarana: A Masterpiece of Sino-Tibetan Craftsmanship, Late 19th Century, Qing Dynasty This monumental gilt-lacquered bronze ornamental sculpture of Vajravidarana is an extraordinary and commanding piece of art, showcasing the pinnacle of Sino-Tibetan craftsmanship from the late 19th century. The figure of Vajravidarana, a powerful purification deity in Tibetan Buddhism, is meticulously sculpted to embody both spiritual authority and artistic excellence. Vajravidarana is primarily known for his role in removing spiritual impurities and negativities. Unlike other deities associated with wisdom or compassion, Vajravidarana’s function is centered on purification and healing. He is typically depicted holding a vajra and a bell, symbolizing the cutting away of delusions and the resonance of divine truth. In this striking sculpture, Vajravidarana is shown holding a vishva vajra (the double vajra), a unique and powerful variation of the traditional iconography, which signifies ultimate protection and the dispelling of negative karma. Vajravidarana: The Supreme Purifier and Protector Vajravidarana is revered in Tibetan Buddhism as the deity of spiritual purification, called upon to cleanse practitioners of defilements and negative influences. His vajra represents the indestructibility of truth, while his bell signifies the wisdom that resonates through purification rituals. In this sculpture, the presence of the vishva vajra, or double vajra, enhances his association with supreme protection, ensuring the destruction of all spiritual obstacles and afflictions. The figure’s powerful yet composed expression conveys a sense of unwavering resolve and divine authority. His posture, along with the carefully sculpted details of his robes and ornaments, highlights his function as a guardian against impurity. The inclusion of the vishva vajra rather than the usual single vajra reinforces his role as a supreme protector, capable of dispelling all forms of negativity and restoring balance. Symbolism of the Mantras and Aureole: Unlike deities that embody wisdom through duality, Vajravidarana’s iconography is centered on purification and exorcism. The aureole surrounding him is inscribed with sacred purification mantras rather than depictions of a consort. These mantras emphasize his function as a remover of obstacles and impurities, reinforcing his role in Buddhist healing rituals. The presence of the sacred inscriptions elevates the sculpture’s spiritual significance, making it a focal point for meditation and ritual purification. Practitioners often visualize Vajravidarana radiating purifying light, dissolving afflictions and negative karma. This theme is mirrored in the sculptural repetition of the purification symbols on the aureole, reinforcing the deity’s role as a divine cleanser. Gilt-Lacquered Bronze: The Artistry of Sino-Tibetan Metalwork: The craftsmanship of this monumental figure reflects the expertise of late 19th-century Sino-Tibetan metalwork, where traditional Tibetan themes were infused with Chinese artistic sensibilities. Cast in bronze and finished with a rich gilt lacquer, the statue has an otherworldly glow, giving it an ethereal, almost divine presence. The gilding process—applied with exceptional skill—gives the sculpture a striking luminosity that enhances the fine details of the facial features, flowing robes, jewelry, and other elements of the deity’s attire. The technique employed to create this figure speaks to the high level of craftsmanship that flourished during the late Qing Dynasty and early modern Tibetan art. The ornate details of the robes and the fine texture of the sculpture highlight the exceptional skill of the artisans who brought this work to life. The use of gold and lacquer not only reflects the preciousness of the sculpture but also its spiritual significance as an object meant to inspire reverence and meditation. An Ornamental Sculpture of Monumental Scale: Unlike smaller devotional objects, this sculpture is designed as an ornamental masterpiece, intended to make a grand visual and spiritual statement. Its monumental size allows it to dominate any space, offering a commanding presence that is both physically and symbolically impressive. In Buddhist practice, large sculptures of this nature are often placed in temples or meditation halls, where their imposing size and serene presence would encourage contemplation and devotion. The grand scale of the statue further amplifies the spiritual power it is meant to convey. As a representation of Vajravidarana, it is not only a physical object of beauty but also a conduit for meditation, purification, and enlightenment. The scale of the sculpture also emphasizes the divine stature of the deity, highlighting his importance in the Buddhist tradition as the ultimate force for spiritual cleansing and protection. Provenance: Acquired in China in circa 1900 1905 Private Buddhist Temple, Northeast, USA Private Sale Solomon Treasure...

Antique Chinese cloisonné enamel round box with lid depicting floral patterns. A white base tone and colorful floral all around, from the 19th century.

This petite Chinese bronze mirror has the simple beauty and undeniable texture of an ancient object. Though an exact date is unknown, the mirror's round form, double ring edge and un...

Quality work, Antique Japanese Lidded Cloisonné Canister, Meiji Period, with the theme of dragons. Dimensions; 2.125" Dia x 2.625" H

This three-tiered container is a 19th-century white brass incense clock, once used as a relatively accurate method to mark the passage of time. Incense c...

This slender metal container is a 19th-century white brass incense burner, used for storing and burning incense sticks. The small box has a rectangular form and a removable sliding t...

Chinese Archaistic gilt bronze ritual bell with raised panthers on the sides, a stylized mask on front and back, incised and relief geometric decoration. With a wonderful verdigris p...

Presenting a very large and beautiful Chinese cloisonné enamel egg with intricated patterns made by hand seating on a wood stand, early 20 century. It's measured about 17" x 10" with...

A Pair of Chinese Cloisonne Vases, 19th Century Provenance: Private Australian Collection. Description: Each on rolled foot with undulating standard rising to a tape...

A Chinese Cloisonne Tray with Qianlong Mark, Early 20th Century Home decor, Interior design and collectibles. Provenance: Private Victoria Collection. ...

A Chinese antique handbell made of copper alloy. I think it is from the late Qing dynasty to the end of the Qing dynasty. Although it is a casting, ...

Quality work, Antique 2 Japanese Cloisonné Meiji Period Vases, Signed opm one vase. Dimensions; Larger: 4" Dia x 4.25" H with imperfect shape but no enamel lost Smaller: 3" Dia x 6" H

A fine antique 19th century Chinese cloisonne ding shaped lidded censer/incense burner on stand, circa 1870. The twin handled censer having a gilded foo dog finial to the lid, the li...

A Chinese Brass Jewellery Lidded Box, Early 20th Century Provenance: Private Australian Collection Acquired in 1980s. Dimension: Width: 11cm Height: 7cm Depth: 9cm.

Pair Chinese cloisonne enamel vases with floral designs on blue ground and gilt mounts representing stylized dorsal fins of a dragon.

Large cast iron tub with floral motif with four ring pulls, there is one casted inscription on one side with date made : " Emperor Qianglong Era 32nd yea...

This fine old urn cast as an honorific nod to the ancient past of China was made circa 1600-1650. The shape or Hue was a common and well-represented form in the Han dynasty in pottery and bronze. This urn shows thin casting to the walls with incorporated toe tia or facial masks...

A small and elegant Chinese cloisonné vase for incense tools, Qing Dynasty, 18th/19th century, China. Made for the scholar's studio, this small refined vase, was used to hold incense tools, including a small pair of tongs or chopsticks and spoon. The tools no longer present. Of miniature baluster vase form, the vase beautify proportioned and decorated in the cloisonné enamel technique, with gilt wires forming the cloisons, or partitions. Within the cloisons, colorful enamels have been expertly laid. The small incense tool vase...

Presenting a very large and beautiful Chinese cloisonné enamel egg with intricated patterns made by hand seating on a wood stand, early 20 century. It's measured about 4 1/2" x 7", a...

Chinese bronze vase with decoration in the Archaistic style and dragon mythical beast loop handles.

This impressive Chinese Export Silver Centrepiece, consists of a large central dish, pierced with bamboo decoration, supported by five shoots of bamboo also with bamboo leaf decorat...

This is a very good antique Chinese foo or lion dog sculpture, sometimes called a temple lions, made of bronze, with excellent detail, dating to the 19th century, Qing period or poss...

A PAIR OF CHINESE CLOISONNE ENAMEL BOXES AND COVERS, 19TH CENTURY, each decorated with polychrome tree blossom on black ground, the insides enamelled with blue, each resting on pier...

Chinese Cloisonné Bowl Carved Gem Stone/ Serpentine Medallion & Ring Handles China, Later 20th Century An exquisite Chinese cloisonné bowl from the 20th ce...

Bronze pitcher designed as a phoenix, China, late 19th-beginning 20th century. Apocryphal mark Xuande. Measures: Height 12.5 cm (5 in). Antique Bronze Teapot with Mythical Motif – Ex...

The fine pair of mirrored gilt cloisonné enamel butterfly vases from the mid 20th-century are exquisite examples of Chinese artistry and craftsmanship. These vases combine several in...

Monochrome Chinese Fish Scale cloisonne is long famed for it's high quality of craftsmanship and understated elegance. A staple of interior design...

An exceptional palatial quality pair of 19th century Chinese cloisonné Fu dogs featuring gold gilding over copper. Chinese cloisonné o...

Early to Mid 20th Century Impressive Chinese Cloisonne Enamel Decorated Bowl with a stately 20.5" diameter. Bowl is decorated all the way around including the entire inside in the mo...

A Large Chinese Cloisonne Enamel Filigree and Gilt Boat with Wood Base The sails with colorful enameled birds, resting on a conforming carved ...

A stunning and rare Chinese archaic bronze gui, a type of ritual bronze vessel used to hold grain, either for feasting, or for making offerings ...

Pair of life size Chinese cloisonné or enamel on copper birds decorated with elaborate floral designs, having brass crests, beaks, and feet and removable wings.

A Large Gilt Bronze Censer. A large, gilt, bronze censer with twin handles and adorned with an intricate, raised pattern. Stampled on base. Additional information: Dimensions: Heig...

This antique Chinese mirror is cast of bronze in the tang-dynasty style, with a lobed rim of eight flower petals, each filled with small cloud ...

A Fantastic, rare, and antique Chinese Cloisonné Enamel Gu Form vase, 17th/18th century, Kangxi Period. This cloisonne vase is extremely rare to find in this quality, condition, age,...

Presenting a beautiful Chinese cloisonné enamel egg depicting the faces of the Chinese traditional opera theme with a wood stand, early 20 century.

A pair of extraordinary 26" wide, 63 lb, heavy cast bronze Foo Dog lions. Each modeled on its side with large turned head with open jaw, bulging eyes and curly eyebrows, framed by a tightly curled mane. One lion...

A beautifully decorated Chinese late Qing-dynasty (1644–1911) hot water bottle, originally used to heat a bed or warm the body. This piece is made of brass (it could be bronze but w...

Antique Chinese Mixed Metal and Enamel Opium Box. An oval form in three parts consisting of a paktong container with smooth sides and makers mark impressed on the base, a tight fitt...

Hailing from the Ming period in 16/17th century, this monumental bronze vase is a fine example of the auspicious decor and markings unique to Chinese furnishings. The vase is cast wi...

A fine Chinese Export silver cup. By Wang Hing. In .900 silver. With floral repousse decoration to the entire exterior of the cup. With a script 'B' monogram to the base. Fully marked to the base. Simply a wonderful Chinese silver cup...

A finely cast bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara in his four-arm form with gilt and polychrome surface. The Bodhisattva of Infinite Compassion is worshiped in all Buddhism sect as one ...

A massive Chinese blue cloisonné vase or urn depicting a colorful imperial phoenix with gilt bronze wires among birds and butterflies in an imperia...

Chinese black enamel cloisonné and brass ginger jar vase with chrysanthemum flowers, dogwood flowers and a butterfly and beautiful rich colors. Hand crafted on solid brass.

A mixture of finely powdered tobacco, herbs, and spices, snuff was introduced to China in the 17th century by Western diplomats. Initially reserved for ranking members of Qing-dynast...

A Chinese Brass Etched Lock with Key, Early 20th Century Provenance: Private Australian Collection. Dimension: Height: 2.5cm Width: 10cm Depth: 2cm.