DESCRIPTION

Antique 19th Century extremely rare Chinese solid silver & enamel pot with cover, the sides are decorated with shaded enamel, depicting bats amongst clouds (in Chinese culture bats are the symbol of happiness and joy). The base decorated with the symbol of Longevity (long life), the character shou is a common decorative motif, often used in textiles or on porcelain.

Although the silver is not hallmarked (tested 900+ standard), this kind of quality of enamel can only be attributed to Huang Qiu Ji (active in Shanghai & Beijing, 1850-1925). Huang Qiu Ji was a manufacturing silversmith but is noted for his exceptional enamel on silver work. His reputation is at the top of the list; there are many that hold the belief he was a producer of enamel work for the Imperial Court. It is rare to find the Huang Qiu Ji mark alone, but it does happen. Usually, his mark appears alongside a mark of a retail silversmith. Wo Shing, Wang Hing, Poh Hing [Po Shing] and Chong Woo are four of the most notable 19th century retail silversmiths that regularly created works in conjunction with Huang Qiu Ji.

A floral subject is almost always the theme. Blues, greens, pinks and yellow are the colours Huang Qiu Ji favoured. With current Chinese collectors, there is a particular preference for any Chinese silver that has enamelled colour applied. For more information please see A. Von Ferscht, Chinese Export Silver 1785-1940, 4th edition 2015, page 335.

CONDITION

In Great Condition - No Damage.

SIZE

Height: 7cm
Width: 6cm
Weight: 120g

REFERENCE NUMBER: A5059