A quite ancient and rare Tibetan or Nepalese temple or home alter, bronze lamp in form of a dragon/lion. A fine and highly detailed sculpture, the charming and somewhat comical beast tries so hard to appear ferocious, he stands with one foot on a writhing snake. For burning fat oil or incense oils, wicks were placed down into the head and into the fancy shaped pan he carries on his back. The animal is hollow to hold the oils, its small round fill plug at his side is missing. Very old, in nice condition, from the base type, likely 12th to 15th century. All original.2 1/4" high x 2 5/8" wide.