Exquisitely carved monkey holding crab handle and knob depicting monkey. Green leaves blue and beige and yellow flowers. Silver and ivory. Exterior tarnishing but otherwise perfect. Japanese or Chinese.
Pot 3.5 across, 2.75 tall, spout to handle 6", monkey knob .5".
Hello, this item is a miniature silver cloisonné teapot featuring a carved handle and knob, possibly Japanese or Chinese in origin. The teapot measures approximately 3.5 inches across by 2.75 inches tall, with a total length of 6 inches from spout to handle, and features intricate enamel work depicting green leaves and beige, blue, and yellow flowers. The handle and lid knob are carved in the form of monkeys holding a crab, likely crafted from ivory or a similar material. The external surface shows natural tarnishing to the silver base, which suggests some age, while the enamel appears intact without significant losses.
Given the craftsmanship, proportions, and decorative themes, this type of object would typically date to the late 19th to early 20th century, possibly falling within the Meiji period for Japan or the late Qing period for China. The combination of silver cloisonné with carved ivory details indicates a luxury or collector’s piece rather than a utilitarian object. Miniature teapots like this were often made for export or as part of scholar’s desk sets. Based on comparable examples and condition, the fair market value would be in the range of $600–900 USD.