Thank you for submitting your item for appraisal. This appears to be a chinese soapstone carving in the shape of a ceremonial ewer. The body is intricately carved with images of mythical beasts, the phoenix and the qilin. The spout is carved in the shape of a dragon head and so is the lid´s finial. The open fretwork in relief carvings also show foliage, clouds and mushroom motifs. Production date should be late 20th century, the high gloss varnish is typical for recent soapstone carvings. The estimate is based on recent auction results. "Asking prices" in the trade can be higher and vary. There is no measurement for the sentimental value you might attach to it.