19th Century champlevé urn vase dragon enamel

This is a huge rare 19th century Japanese champlevé urn vase with handles of dragon tails, snake bodies and elephant heads. . The whole background is made up of different raised designs, including two large phoenix like birds that face each other on each side . I think it is bronze ( too heavy and dark to be brass ) and it is REALLY HEAVY . This is an exceptional vase with nice patina that measures 15" tall and 9" wide. Marked Japan on the bottom. This Champlevé (pronounced "Sham-pluh-vay") technique is the opposite of the cloisonné process: instead of building up on the surface of the metal object, the surface is gouged away, creating troughs and channels separated by thin ridges of metal that form the outline of the design. The troughs are filled with powdered enamel and fused. The champlevé technique requires a thick metal base and therefore is used more often on tombac, copper and other base metals. I have had this for many years and it is time for it to get a new home. You get it dust and patina and all . Vintage and antique items are not mint nor are they perfect. Sold as is and as found (used and probably vintage) Since this is Irreplaceable there can be no returns on this sale.. Please use photos to make your decisions.