This is a solid silver Meiji period Kyusu teapot .
It is done in repousee with a two water-dragon motif ; the two dragons are intertwined around the body of the teapot & one dragons' neck & head serve as the spout .
The lid has another water-dragon , with it's head serving as a handle .
The dragon heads on the spout & lid are cast silver and are silver-soldered on .
There is an Ivory handle (approx. 70 mm) mounted at 90 degrees , relative to the spout .
This is a highly detailed and skilled work of the time period .
The only mark that I can find is the 'pure silver' Jungin stamped on the bottom of the teapot .
I have been told that it looks like the work of either Y.Nonoike or Yukitru .
With no found signature , that's only guesswork , I guess.
I've had trouble trying to post photos on this form , so I am including 2 links to photobucket , for the viewing of this item .
http://i686.photobucket.com/albums/vv230/mrgeekteatoo/2009_0320Artwork0…
http://i686.photobucket.com/albums/vv230/mrgeekteatoo/bottom.jpg
Thank you , in advance , for looking at my little teapot !
Re: Meiji Period Sterling Silver Dragon Teapot
Hello again ...
I'm just curious if anyone has found any additional information about my little teapot .
Thank you !
Re: Meiji Period Sterling Silver Dragon Teapot
Silly question, how do you know it's Sterling? Both the Japanese ans Chines used hallmarks.
Lovejoy
Re: Meiji Period Sterling Silver Dragon Teapot
Thanks for asking , Lovejoy .
The 'Jungin' on it's base signifies "pure silver" in Japanese .
I had it tested by a good silversmith/jeweler & it came up .950 silver .
regularfella2
Re: Meiji Period Sterling Silver Dragon Teapot
My Bad, I didn't see the mark ;~). One doesn't run into silver Japanese teapots like this everyday, or even once a year. At auction these seldom sell for under $600.00.
Lovejoy
Re: Meiji Period Sterling Silver Dragon Teapot
I agree , Lovejoy .
About 6 years ago I saw a later version of a Sterling silver Japanese Dragon teapot ( 1940's ) , with an ebony handle , walk out of an antique shop in Seattle for $1400 + tax .
I guess it's worth what a collector is willing to pay , eh ?
Thanks for your comment , Lovejoy .
-regularfella2
Re: Meiji Period Sterling Silver Dragon Teapot
I have a similiar one,if you are interested in,I can send you some photos.
Re: Meiji Period Sterling Silver Dragon Teapot
Very nice.Â