Spencer Marks

Tiffany & Co Rare Antique Sterling Silver Dragon-handled Ewer, NYC, NY, 1883

This rare ewer is exquisite and a remarkable example of the imaginative designs and quality that one expects from the finest silver produced by Tiffany & Co.

A dragon, clutching the opening, is perched on the bulbous body with a long tail traveling down the back. The design of the head, with its open mouth, long whiskers, and facial expression, transforms this menacing creature into a somewhat jovial character. We're curious if he's helping to pour the wine or stealing a sip! Completing the dragon is the arched, textured handle with outstretched feet. The details of this mythical creature are exceptional, as is the body of the piece.

Underneath the spout is an engraved 'K' initial above rows of hanging lotus leaves with parcel-gilt tips. This motif is replicated on a larger scale, rising upwards from the bottom. Stunningly chased and applied exotic branches of needles or leaves (1) flow in various directions around the body. Twelve aesthetic movement floral bosses with beaded centers, teardrop petals, and beaded borders ornament the body. 

This magnificent ewer is marked "TIFFANY & Co/ 7366 MAKERS 6410/ STERLING-SILVER/ 925-1000/ M/ 1028." It measures 14 inches tall, weighs 61.90 troy ounces, and is in very good/ excellent antique condition with light wear to the gilding, a small crease in one lotus leaf near the base, and the loss of one small Cycad (?) leaf.