Hankow Golf Club 1888 Presentation Silver Trophy Tray
Hollowware (Presentation Tray/Trophy) · Unknown provincial or export silversmith; potentially a Chinese Export Silversmith or a British manufacturer like Elkington or Mappin & Webb marketed in the Far East.
Pattern: Victorian Beaded and Husk Pattern; personalized sporting trophy commission.
Type
Hollowware (Presentation Tray/Trophy)
Maker
Unknown provincial or export silversmith; potentially a Chinese Export Silversmith or a British manufacturer like Elkington or Mappin & Webb marketed in the Far East.
Material
Suspected Silver Plate (EPNS or Nickel Silver) based on surface wear and luster; could potentially be Sterling Silver (.925) or Chinese Export Silver (.900).
Dimensions
Estimated 10 to 14 inches in length; approximately 500-800 grams depending on metal thickness and base material.
Description
A rare and historically significant Victorian silver presentation tray awarded to Alexander Law by the Hankow Golf Club. The tray features intricate engraving of crossed golf clubs and 19th-century typography, surrounded by a sophisticated border of stylized husks and beads.
Key Features
Specific 'Hankow Golf Club' inscription; crossed 19th-century style golf club engravings; dated 1888; Neoclassical husk border.
Material & Composition
Suspected Silver Plate (EPNS or Nickel Silver) based on surface wear and luster; could potentially be Sterling Silver (.925) or Chinese Export Silver (.900).
Finish & Decoration
Bright-cut engraving of golf clubs and laurel sprays; chased beaded border with repoussé floral/husk garland; mirror-polished center.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in image; would typically be found on the reverse side. Expected marks include 'EPNS', a maker's cartouche, or a purity lion.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-struck tray body with hand-engraved central presentation text and decorative elements.
Functional Features
Flat serving surface for presentation; raised perimeter rim to contain items; decorative beaded border functionality.
Handle & Grip Details
Tray appears to be a lug-less or handle-less oval platter design common for trophy wall-mounting or display.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent typography engraving; the border shows consistent die-work characteristic of high-quality late 19th-century industrial silver production.
Authentication Indicators
The engraving style and font are consistent with late 19th-century techniques. The mention of 'Hankow' aligns with historical British Treaty Port activities in China.
Origin & Manufacturing
Hankow (Wuhan), China; commissioned for the British expatriate community in the Treaty Port system.
Era & Period
Late Victorian (1888); specifically reflecting the height of British Imperial sporting culture in Treaty Ports.
Age Estimate
Dated October 31st, 1888; confirmed 19th-century production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Treaty Port' silver era where Western sporting traditions were fused with local silversmithing or imported luxury goods in China.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Shows significant surface scratching, moderate tarnish, and possible plate loss in high-relief areas. Some pitting visible near the engraving.
Value Estimate
$300 - $800 USD. Value is driven by historical sporting interest and colonial history rather than just metal weight.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a non-abrasive silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Avoid machine washing. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Shanghai Race Club trophies or Hong Kong Jockey Club presentation silver; typically feature more ornate 'Export' motifs like dragons.
Interesting Facts
The Hankow Golf Club was one of the earliest golf clubs in China, established by British traders and expatriates living in the foreign concessions of Wuhan.