Gilt bronze and stone teapot "Flowers and dragons", Tibet, Qing dynasty

Richly ornamented bronze teapot with a globular body and a truncated cone-shaped base, decorated with plant and floral reliefs throughout. The conical lid, also in bronze, features a pineapple-shaped top button, connected to the handle by a fine articulated chain. The body is inlaid with semiprecious stones in shades of red, green, and light blue, arranged in bands and decorative elements that encircle the entire piece. The handle and pouring spout are crafted in the shape of finely modelled dragons, with scales and defined details, reinforcing their protective and auspicious character. Applications of metallic thread and brass beads accentuate the relief of the ornaments, with meticulous and symmetrical execution. Qing Dynasty (1644–1912) or later.

Size: 25.5 × 21 × 13 cm

Weight: 2479 g