Nepalese Brass Teapot

A teapot with a dragon for a spout and a rope of stone for a handle.

This teapot comes from Nepal and dates to the late 19th or early 20th century. It combines hardstone, brass and rock crystal. Tea has long been central to hospitality across the Himalaya, and fine vessels were made for serving it. A band of green-grey stone carved with beasts circles the belly, framed by brass engraved with dense scrolls. The twisted handle and lid are stone in russet and cream, and a rock crystal cabochon sits on the shoulder. It measures 7.25 inches wide and 6 high.

Pouring from it would require a certain seriousness.