Antique Chinese Engraved Brass Dragon Charger Flaming Pearl Dish C.1925 30.5cm

A large and highly decorative antique Chinese engraved brass charger or shallow dish, probably dating to the early 20th century, circa 1920–1930.

The interior is extensively hand engraved with a pair of opposing Chinese dragons amongst stylised cloud scrolls, arranged around a large central auspicious medallion incorporating the traditional flaming pearl motif.

The dragons are depicted with elongated sinuous bodies, individually worked scales, expressive heads and flowing whiskers and horns. Particularly attractive are the hand-cut details throughout the design, including fine parallel hatching, individually engraved scale patterns and freely executed cloud forms.

The close-up photographs clearly show variations in line depth, spacing and tooling consistent with hand engraving rather than modern machine stamping, giving the piece considerable character.

The dragon and flaming-pearl motif is one of the best-known auspicious designs in Chinese decorative art, traditionally associated with power, prosperity, wisdom and the pursuit of enlightenment.

The brass has developed an attractive warm aged surface with darker toning retained within the engraved decoration, together with extensive historic scratches, rubbing, oxidation and surface marks consistent with age and use.

The underside is substantially plain, displaying further historic wear, scratches, oxidation and old collector or inventory marks.

Origin: China

Period: Early 20th century

Date: Probably circa 1920–1930

Material: Brass / copper alloy

Decoration: Hand-engraved dragons, cloud scrolls and flaming pearl

Form: Charger / shallow dish / display bowl

Diameter: Approx. 30.5cm

Height: Approx. 6cm

Condition: Good antique condition overall with age-related surface wear, scratches, rubbing, oxidation, patination and minor irregularities consistent with age and hand manufacture. No obvious major structural damage is apparent from the photographs. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

A substantial and decorative example of early-20th-century Chinese brasswork, combining classic dragon-and-flaming-pearl iconography with extensive traditional hand engraving.

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.