Antique Chinese Brass Bronze Teapot Dragon Phoenix Immortal Fu Mark C.1900

An unusual antique Chinese brass-rich copper-alloy teapot, probably dating to the late Qing / early Republic period, circa 1900–1930.

Of compact rounded form, the teapot has a curved spout, large loop handle and fitted domed cover with spherical knop. The body and lid are decorated throughout with auspicious Chinese imagery associated with prosperity, longevity and good fortune.

The body is cast in relief with a mythical or immortal figure, while the domed lid is richly decorated with dragon, phoenix and other auspicious creatures amongst scrolling motifs.

A four-character inscription to the lower body appears to read:

福如東海

Fú rú Dōng Hǎi

meaning approximately:

“May your good fortune be as vast as the Eastern Sea.”

This is a traditional Chinese blessing associated with prosperity and longevity.

The underside bears the single character:

富 — Fù

meaning wealth / prosperity. This is best interpreted as an auspicious decorative mark rather than a reign or maker’s mark.

The metal has a warm golden-brown appearance consistent with a brass-rich copper alloy, with darker patination to the handle, recessed decoration and interior. The newer photographs show convincing age-related wear, oxidation and colour variation throughout, together with darker interior patination consistent with historic use.

Origin: China

Period: Late Qing / early Republic

Date: Probably circa 1900–1930

Material: Brass-rich copper alloy / bronze

Decoration: Dragon, phoenix and auspicious figure

Inscription: 福如東海 — “Good fortune as vast as the Eastern Sea”

Base mark: 富 — “Wealth / prosperity”

Width: Approx. 12cm

Height: Approx. 9.5cm

Weight: Approx. 447g

Condition: Good antique condition overall, with age-related rubbing, scratches, oxidation, patination and colour variation. Darker wear is present around the handle, spout and recessed decoration, with additional oxidation and deposits to the interior. No obvious major structural damage is apparent from the photographs. Please examine all images carefully as they form an important part of the description.

A decorative and symbolically rich example of late Qing / early Republic Chinese metalwork, combining dragon-and-phoenix imagery, auspicious figural decoration and traditional prosperity inscriptions.

About CKB LTD.

CKB LTD. was formed in 2010 and operates as an independent dealer, with a focus on carefully selected works offered through private sale and online platforms.

The company emphasizes informed attribution, clear descriptions, and responsible market practice. Objects are evaluated through visual examination, comparative research, and reference to established art-historical frameworks, with attention to condition, authenticity, and context.

CKB LTD. works with private collectors, dealers, and international buyers, and conducts transactions in accordance with standard international art market conventions. Each item is offered as a collectible work of art, with transparency regarding condition and attribution, and with respect for the nature of historical objects.

Condition, Attribution & Authenticity Notice

This work is offered as an antique object based on visual examination and comparative stylistic analysis. All statements regarding age, origin, attribution, and period represent informed scholarly opinion and are not guarantees of absolute fact.

Condition descriptions are based on external observation only. The interior, underside of the base, and any internal cavities or consecration materials have not been examined. No technical analysis (including XRF, thermoluminescence, or metallurgical testing) has been performed.

As is typical with antique bronzes, minor casting irregularities, surface wear, rubbing to high points, oxidation, and age-related imperfections are present and should be expected. No visible repairs or restorations are observed from the available views; however, the absence of hidden restorations cannot be guaranteed.

All items are sold as is, and prospective buyers are encouraged to examine the photographs carefully and request additional information prior to purchase. By bidding or purchasing, the buyer acknowledges acceptance of the item?s condition and the nature of antique works.

International Buyers ? Important Information

This item is an antique work of art over 100 years old and is sold as a collectible object. Buyers are responsible for any import duties, VAT, GST, customs fees, or local taxes imposed by their country.

The seller does not provide CITES documentation, export permits, or cultural property certificates unless explicitly stated. Please verify import requirements with your local customs authority prior to purchase.

All shipments are professionally packed and fully insured. Title and risk pass to the buyer upon shipment.

This work is offered in accordance with standard international art market practices.