Chinese Export Sterling Silver Repoussé Dragon Cigarette Box
Decorative Object / Cigarette Case / Box · Likely Wang Hing, Zee Wo, or Luen Wo. These silversmiths were the premier makers of Chinese Export Silver (CES) in Hong Kong, Canton, and Shanghai during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for high-quality hand-chased work for the Western market.
Pattern: Traditional Dragon and Clouds with Calligraphy. Not a part of a production line, but a classic motif of the Chinese Export period.
Type
Decorative Object / Cigarette Case / Box
Maker
Likely Wang Hing, Zee Wo, or Luen Wo. These silversmiths were the premier makers of Chinese Export Silver (CES) in Hong Kong, Canton, and Shanghai during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for high-quality hand-chased work for the Western market.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Chinese Silver (.900+). Many CES items tested slightly above or below 92.5% purity. Often features a wood lining (mahogany or sandalwood) to protect the silver from tobacco moisture.
Dimensions
Standard dimensions approximately 10.5cm x 9cm x 4cm. Estimated silver weight (excluding wood liner) is roughly 150-200 grams/5-6 troy oz.
Description
An exceptional example of Chinese Export Silver, this square box features a dynamic, high-relief dragon coiled across the lid. The dragon's scales are individually chased, and its expression is ferocious. Flanking the mythical creature are characters in seal script. The heavy patina suggests years of atmospheric exposure, which has settled into the recesses to create a dramatic three-dimensional effect.
Key Features
Deep repoussé dragon motif; integrated seal script calligraphy; stippled ground; traditional Chinese Export construction with wood-lined interior.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Chinese Silver (.900+). Many CES items tested slightly above or below 92.5% purity. Often features a wood lining (mahogany or sandalwood) to protect the silver from tobacco moisture.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief repoussé and chasing depicting a powerful four or five-clawed dragon amidst stylized clouds. The surface features a stippled or matted ground to emphasize the polished dragon. Stylized Chinese characters (likely representing longevity or prosperity) are integrated into the design within square cartouches.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically found on the interior rim or base. Expected marks include a Chinese artisan character mark and a Latin letter mark (e.g., 'WH' for Wang Hing) or '90', '95', or 'STERLING'.
Construction Details
Hand-raised and hand-chased from a flat sheet of silver. The dragon is pushed out from the back (repoussé) and detailed from the front (chasing). The box likely features a piano-style hinge and a cedar or mahogany wood liner secured by folded silver edges.
Functional Features
Hinged lid with a tight-fitting lip. Designed specifically to hold loose cigarettes or small items. The heavy oxidation (patina) currently provides a visual contrast but may affect the smoothness of the hinge.
Handle & Grip Details
No external handle; the depth of the repoussé on the lid provides a natural textured grip for opening.
Craftsmanship Details
Exhibits superior hand-tooling. Each scale on the dragon is a result of a individual strike of a chasing tool. The symmetry of the border and the depth of the relief indicate a master-level artisan.
Authentication Indicators
The style of the dragon’s scales and the specific 'stippled' background are hallmark techniques of the Canton workshops. The depth of the relief work is consistent with hand-work from this period rather than modern cast reproductions.
Origin & Manufacturing
China, most likely Canton (Guangzhou) or Shanghai. Manufactured by skilled silversmiths following centuries-old traditions of metalwork adapted for the international trade.
Era & Period
Late Qing Dynasty / Early Republic Period (c. 1880-1925). This era saw a peak in Silver Export to the West, blending traditional Chinese iconography with Western utilitarian forms.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890-1910 based on the density of the dragon motif and the box form, which was highly popular among British and American expatriates and military officers during the Boxer Rebellion period.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'China Trade' history and the synthesis of Western function with Eastern art. These pieces were highly prized souvenirs for travelers on the Grand Tour and colonial officials.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The item shows heavy oxidation/tarnish, which is desirable to some but removable. The repoussé remains crisp without significant flattening. No visible splits in the silver corners.
Value Estimate
$400 - $850 USD depending on the specific maker's mark and the weight of the silver. Items by Wang Hing can command a 20-30% premium.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft brush and mild soapy water first. If polishing is desired, use a high-quality silver cream like Hagerty's with a very soft cloth. Avoid dipping as it may damage the wood liner and remove the 'soul' of the patina in deep recesses.
Similar Pieces
Japanese Meiji-era 'Dragon' silver (usually has more fluid, less 'chunky' scales); Victorian 'Aesthetic Movement' silver (often simpler or plated).
Interesting Facts
The dragon's claws are a status symbol; historically, five-clawed dragons were reserved for the Emperor. Export silver often used them widely as the silversmiths were catering to Westerners who favored the most ornate aesthetic.