Hallmarks: 90, WH, Chinese ideogram
Size: apx. 3 & 1/3 inches wide, 1 & 1/2 inches tall
Quantity: 1
A very fine antique Chinese export silver powder box or dresser vanity jar, produced
c. 1875 - 1885 by Wang Hing, reportedly one of the most important trade silversmith
/ goldsmith of all time.
While Wang Hing is known to have produced a wide variety of exceptional, fine quality
pieces, a thorough research suggests that vanity articles of this nature are somewhat
more rare and hard to find.
This fine example is profusely decorated on a stippled ground with a floral and foliage
motif, including cherry blossom, chrysanthemum, lotus, peony, prunus and water lily,
each of which is significant in the Chinese culture. For example, the cherry blossom
represents feminine principal and spiritual beauty. The Chrysanthemum represents
cheerfulness, loveliness. simplicity and tranquility.
This vanity box is in excellent estate condition. We see no dings, dents or damage.
It is very well made, with a hinged lid and solid, slightly stepped base. Lid opens,
closes and aligns perfectly with bowl. As is typical of Chinese boxes and other
hinged items, there is a very slight amount of play in lid hinge; this is normal
and is entirely appropriate for a period example.
The box is constructed of fine, heavy gauge 900+ silver. (slightly less than the
US 925 sterling standard) Weight is a considerable 5.52 troy ounces. A very impressive,
excellent quality, desirable antique dresser or vanity accessory.
Numerous examples of Wang Hing’s work are shown in the book Chinese Export Silver,
by Forbes, Kernan & Wilkins, publisher: Museum of The America China Trade.
