A 19th century Yixing bulbous shaped teapot standing on 3 stubby round feet. the spout shaped as a Chilong dragon, on the top and handles also rests a Chilong dragon. The middle band is colored black and stamped with Greek key pattern and flanked by a stamped Ruyi shape. The lid is also decorated with stamped Ruyi pattern. Stamped at the bottom with a flaming pearl, typical of the late Qing dynasty. The Chilong (螭龍) is one of the dragon's nine sons, an auspicious beast of legend revered by the Chinese. Chilong represents strength, influence and stateliness in ancient Chinese culture. Chilongs are often depicted as "water dragons" and adorn vessels which contain water, as this Teapot. PROVENANCE: Comes from a old Dutch collection, according heiress traceable before 1900. REFERENCE: Please see an identical teapot in: Yixing: Teapots for Europe | Patrice Valfre | 2000 dating it 19th century. Page 199 item 124 See an identical teapot in The Palace Museum: https://www.dpm.org.cn/collection/ceramic/227620.html?hl=%E7%BB%B6%E9%A6%A5 Dimensions: H9,7 x W20 (handle to spout) x W13 cm Condition: No damage! The underside is a little blackened by the use of a tealight to keep the pot warm. The inside has a lot of limescale build up due to prolonged use. Checked with strong UV light for defects. Shipping method: The item is securely packed and shipped with insurance without stand or miniature teapot.