more pics :)

I would guess this is fairly new because the lines seem to be very consistent in width and weight and seem to show chatter, which would indicate that they are machine made.

 

Think is made of brass because the finer details are rough but would be precise if bronze had been used. Design is kind of crude and simplistic compared to say 19th C. Or earlier Asian bronze vessels featuring dragons. I mean the artwork isn't very attractive in my opinion. This piece is not of great quality, again in my opinion, and I haven't even seen all of it yet. I'm going to guess it is post-WWII manufacture, but it's age isn't the primary factor in assigning a value to it, but the quality, or really lack of it, is important. I'd call it a decorator or souvenir item and not something a knowledgeable collector would want.

 

Paid $1k from a antiques dealer.
He said it was antique/100+ years old

 

I can't say if it's 100 years old or not.....but the chinese guy I showed my 100 year old vase to , laughed and said to me that in China ....100 years old....isn't old !
For them old starts in the 1600's !

 

Good idea to get a bill of sale where seller writes that down and signs it, then at least in most of the US you will have enough evidence to win in small claims court if seller won't refund if you find it is not as advertised.

I can't prove your item isn't 100 years old, all I know is that I personally don't care for either the level of craftsmanship nor the artistic aspects of that piece. I think it would be a good educational exercise for you to take it to some unbiased person with enough expertise to tell you a lot about it, and even if he thinks it isn't worth what you paid, what you learn from this hands-on experience may be worth that and more. If you are going to be spending more money on these items, find dealers with good reputations who will stand behind their merchandise, at least until you have learned enough to buy things anywhere. If you want to collect Asian bronzes, learn how to tell real bronze from cheaper substitutes like brass, plated spelter, etc.

 

Thank you for the advice!!
I know him so I can get credit