Chinese Export Silver Box - Antique Circa 1910

Description

This fine antique Chinese Export Silver (CES) box has a cylindrical form.

The body of this round Chinese silver box is embellished with impressive embossed decorated panels depicting four variations of floral* designs, each incorporating perched birds; each panel features a matte decorated background.

The surface of the body is further embellished with an interlacing pattern.

This antique Chinese silver box is fitted with the original push fit cover ornamented with a continuation of the body's design to the sides.

The upper portion of the cover is ornamented with an impressive panel reflecting the same style as those to the body, and incorporating a plain circular vacant cartouche to the centre.

The hallmarks struck to the underside of this fine box include:

Maker's mark: SC (Sincere & Co)

Character mark: Untraced

* These four floral and foliate designs, within Chinese art, are known as the Four Gentlemen and represent the development of the seasons through the year: orchid - spring (春 / chun), bamboo - summer (夏 / xia), chrysanthemum - autumn (秋 / qiu) and plum blossom - winter (冬 / dong).

We are grateful to Adrien von Ferscht for his help in identifying this exceptional antique piece.