Chinese Export Sterling Silver Cup with Square Seal Mark
Hollowware (Small Cup/Beaker/Trophy) · Unknown Chinese Export Silversmith (indicated by the square seal mark containing Hanzi/Chinese characters). These makers often operated in Canton, Shanghai, or Hong Kong and were renowned for high-quality hand-chased silver.
Pattern: Traditional Chinese Export; likely features floral (plum blossom), dragon, or bamboo motifs on the non-visible exterior faces.
Type
Hollowware (Small Cup/Beaker/Trophy)
Maker
Unknown Chinese Export Silversmith (indicated by the square seal mark containing Hanzi/Chinese characters). These makers often operated in Canton, Shanghai, or Hong Kong and were renowned for high-quality hand-chased silver.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or '90' silver (90% purity), which was the standard for Chinese Export silver destined for Western markets.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of base: 3.5-4.5 cm (1.4-1.8 inches). Estimated weight: 40-70 grams depending on height and gauge of the silver.
Description
A classic example of Chinese Export silver, this small vessel represents the fusion of Eastern craftsmanship with Western functional forms. The base features a crisp, square shop mark, a hallmark of pieces made for the export market.
Key Features
Authentic Chinese characher seal mark; raised circular base rim; evidence of hand-finishing on the bottom surface.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or '90' silver (90% purity), which was the standard for Chinese Export silver destined for Western markets.
Finish & Decoration
The base shows a matte, slightly pitted surface likely from age and oxidation. The seal mark is stamped in relief. Visible edges suggest a smooth, polished finish on the main body.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A single recessed square seal mark containing two or three Chinese characters. This typically identifies the artisan's name or the silver shop. No Western-style 'Sterling' or '925' mark is visible in the provided image.
Construction Details
Hand-raised or spun cylindrical/conical body with a separately soldered flat base plate. The rolling of the rim and the application of the seal suggest traditional workshop assembly.
Functional Features
Single-wall construction for use as a drinking vessel (jigger or small beaker) or as a bud vase. The flat base provides stability.
Handle & Grip Details
Handless design; meant to be gripped around the cylindrical or tapered body.
Craftsmanship Details
The seal is clearly struck, indicating a high-quality die. The solder line between the base and the body appears tight and professional, consistent with skilled workshop output.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of a deeply struck Chinese character seal mark is the primary indicator of authenticity for export silver. The irregular circularity of the base suggests hand-beating rather than modern machine stamping.
Origin & Manufacturing
China, likely from a coastal trading port workshop (Canton or Shanghai). These pieces were crafted by master silversmiths using traditional hand-tooling techniques.
Era & Period
Late Qing Dynasty to Early Republic Period (c. 1880-1940). This was the height of the Chinese Export silver trade.
Age Estimate
Circa 1900-1925. The style of the seal and the visible wear patterns remain consistent with early 20th-century production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the historical mercantile relationship between China and the West, where Chinese motifs were applied to Western objects like teapots and trophy cups.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. The base shows significant surface oxidation (tarnish) and light pitting consistent with age. No major dents or structural cracks are visible on the base flange.
Value Estimate
$150 - $400 USD. Value depends heavily on the exterior decoration (e.g., a high-relief dragon increases value significantly over a plain surface).
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright's). Use a soft toothbrush for the crevices of the seal mark. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Wang Hing (WH) or Zee Wo (ZW) pieces often feature similar seal marks alongside their initials. Differences lie in the specific artisan characters within the square.
Interesting Facts
Chinese Export silver was long misidentified as 'English' because of the frequent use of pseudo-hallmarks (fake lion passants or date letters) intended to help the silver pass through customs.