Chinese Export Silver 'Wan' Longevity Pattern Spirit Cup
Hollowware (Small Cup/Wine Cup/Spirit Cup) · Unknown Chinese Silversmith (indicated by the 'Wan' mark). Likely a workshop in Canton, Hong Kong, or Shanghai catering to domestic and export markets.
Pattern: Lobed Pumpkin or Melon form with 'Shou' (Longevity) character variations; often referred to as 'Hundred Blessings' or 'Longevity' pattern.
Type
Hollowware (Small Cup/Wine Cup/Spirit Cup)
Maker
Unknown Chinese Silversmith (indicated by the 'Wan' mark). Likely a workshop in Canton, Hong Kong, or Shanghai catering to domestic and export markets.
Material
Silver of varying purity, likely 80% to 90% (lower than Sterling) commonly found in Chinese Export and regional silver during this period; may contain copper and nickel alloys.
Dimensions
Diameter: approximately 4-5 cm; Height: approximately 3-4 cm; Estimated Weight: 30-50 grams based on size for thin-walled Chinese silver cups.
Description
An exquisite example of Chinese silversmithing, this small lobed cup features various calligraphic renderings of the 'Shou' character, signifying a wish for long life. The form represents a melon or pumpkin, a traditional symbol of fertility and abundance. The base is marked with the 'Wan' character, suggesting a connection to 'Ten Thousand Years' of prosperity.
Key Features
Distinctive lobed pumpkin shape; high-relief repoussé calligraphy; 'Wan' character base mark; traditional Chinese spirit cup proportions.
Material & Composition
Silver of varying purity, likely 80% to 90% (lower than Sterling) commonly found in Chinese Export and regional silver during this period; may contain copper and nickel alloys.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized satin finish with repoussé and chased decorative panels featuring different calligraphic styles of the 'Shou' (Longevity) character; lobed/fluted body mimicking a pumpkin or melon.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Single central stamp: the Chinese character '萬' (Wàn), which translates to 'ten-thousand' or 'myriad,' symbolizing infinite longevity or prosperity. No Western purity or assay marks visible.
Construction Details
Hand-raised and chased; the body was hammered from a flat sheet, with the lobes created through repoussé work; the foot rim is likely a separate piece soldered to the base.
Functional Features
Turned foot for stability; small volume intended for high-proof spirits or ceremonial tea; heat-efficient lobed design increases surface area for cooling.
Handle & Grip Details
Handleless (hand-held Spirit Cup); the exterior lobing provides a tactile grip and prevents the piece from slipping.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality hand-chasing; each panel character is unique, showing the silversmith's versatility in script. The soldering of the foot is clean and well-executed for the period.
Authentication Indicators
The 'Wan' mark is a known period shop mark. The irregular chasing and hand-punched background texture are consistent with period hand-work rather than modern casting.
Origin & Manufacturing
China; produced in a traditional silversmithing atelier, likely part of an artisan cluster in an export port city.
Era & Period
Late Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) to Early Republic Era, showing traditional Chinese auspicious motifs adapted for general trade.
Age Estimate
Circa 1880-1920. The hallmark style and the soft wear of the repoussé work suggest late 19th or very early 20th-century production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Good Fortune, Prosperity, and Longevity' (Fu Lu Shou) cultural triad. Such cups were common wedding gifts or retirement tributes to patriarchs.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Shows moderate surface oxidation (tarnish) and light scratches throughout. The relief details are softened by age but mostly crisp; no significant dents or structural cracks visible.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD. Small individual cups are common, but the intricate calligraphy and lobed form add a premium for collectors of Chinese Export Silver.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water and a soft brush; light hand-polishing with a cloth to preserve the detailed relief; avoid aggressive silver dips that can strip the character and depth from the chasing.
Similar Pieces
Japanese Meiji Period silver cups (usually features iris/dragons); Southeast Asian silver (often features more floral scrolls).
Interesting Facts
The 'Wan' character (萬) was often synonymous with the Emperor's life ('Wan Sui') and is the root of the word 'Banzai' in Japanese. In silver, it represents a wish for infinite blessings.