Vase - Gilt bronze

Monumental Chinese brass vase with dragon relief and geometric band, c. early 20th century

This impressive brass vase combines a classic, straight form with rich, detailed decoration. The vase has a cylindrical body that tapers to the base and a slightly widened neck with a broad mouth. The most striking feature is the full relief representation of a powerful Chinese dragon that winds around the vase’s contour, between dynamic wave patterns that suggest depth and movement. The dragon is intricately depicted with a scaly body, claws, and an expressive head, in a style characteristic of traditional Chinese iconography. Above the dragon scene, around the neck of the vase, there is a refined geometric band, creating an elegant contrast with the dragon’s organic shapes and adding a sense of balance and harmony. The brass has a polished finish that heightens the reflection of light on the relief details.

The vase weighs 1400 grams and measures 29.5 cm tall and 11 cm in diameter, giving it a substantial and imposing presence. Although not obvious at first glance, the quality of the brass and the detailed chiseling point to craftsmanship often associated with early 20th-century Chinese decorative arts.

Condition:
The vase is in good condition for its age. There is some visible deformation on the bottom base, see photos. In addition, there are slight signs of use and a natural patina that corresponds to the object's age, contributing to its authenticity and character. No repairs or cracks are observed. The brass shine remains, but in some areas it has a richer, deeper tone.

Maker/Designer history
Due to the absence of specific marks, precise identification of the maker or designer is not possible. However, the style and quality of the decoration, with the detailed dragon and the geometric band, are characteristic of Chinese copper and brass workshops that flourished during the late Qing dynasty and the Republic era (approx. 1880–1940). These workshops often produced high-quality decorative objects for domestic and export markets, based on ancestral iconography and techniques. The dragon symbolism was then a particularly popular motif, associated with imperial power, good luck, and prosperity.

Factory/Workshop history
With no specific marks, attributing to a particular factory or workshop is difficult. However, these brass vases were commonly produced in artisanal centers of China, where skilled metalworkers worked. The decorative style of this vase fits well within the tradition of Chinese art objects that combine craftsmanship and symbolism. The dating to the early 20th century is supported by the combination of traditional motifs and the production techniques of that period.

Dating of this vase to the early 20th century is based on the stylistic features of the dragon relief and the geometric motif, consistent with Chinese decorative art of that period. The absence of marks is not unusual in pieces of this type, often coming from smaller, less formal workshops. A higher degree of certainty could be obtained through comparative research with dated pieces that present identical decorative techniques and similar stylistic details, or through metallurgical analysis.

* Impressive Chinese brass vase with detailed dragon relief and elegant geometric band.
* Monumental size (H 29.5 cm, Ø 11 cm, 1400 g) and high-quality craftsmanship.
* Authentic early 20th-century piece, in good condition for its age with a beautiful patina.
* A statement piece for any Asian art collection or eclectic interior.