Chinese Export Paktong or Pewter-Silver Alloy Lobed Salver with Mother-of-Pearl and Copper Inlay
Hollowware (Small Tray/Salver/Wine Coaster) · Unknown Chinese Export artisan workshop, likely based in Canton (Guangzhou) or Shanghai. No specific brand is present, as such items were typically produced in small family-run metalwork ateliers for the Western or domestic luxury market.
Pattern: Traditional Chinese Floral and Calligraphic Motif featuring Chrysanthemum and Lingzhi Fungus (symbolizing longevity and resilience).
Type
Hollowware (Small Tray/Salver/Wine Coaster)
Maker
Unknown Chinese Export artisan workshop, likely based in Canton (Guangzhou) or Shanghai. No specific brand is present, as such items were typically produced in small family-run metalwork ateliers for the Western or domestic luxury market.
Material
Mixed traditional alloy, likely Paktong (cupronickel silver) or high-quality pewter with silver content, featuring intricate inlays of Mother-of-Pearl (shell) and copper/red-brass accents. The dark surface suggests a high lead or tin content that has oxidized over time.
Dimensions
Estimated 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) in diameter. Weight is likely substantial (800-1200g) due to the base metal alloy being denser than pure sterling silver.
Description
This Chinese Export salver is a striking example of mixed-metal artistry. It features an eight-lobed rim decorated with incised clouds and radiating lines. The central well is an artistic canvas displaying a flowering chrysanthemum branch—a symbol of autumn and longevity—composed of inlaid pearlescent materials and reddish copper. To its right, a column of calligraphic script adds a literary elegance, while a geometric border frames the central composition.
Key Features
The most notable feature is the 'Mixed Media' inlay technique which is far rarer than standard silver engraving. The contrast between the dark oxidized alloy and the iridescent shell inlay is the diagnostic trait of this style of Chinese metalware.
Material & Composition
Mixed traditional alloy, likely Paktong (cupronickel silver) or high-quality pewter with silver content, featuring intricate inlays of Mother-of-Pearl (shell) and copper/red-brass accents. The dark surface suggests a high lead or tin content that has oxidized over time.
Finish & Decoration
Heavily oxidized/patinated surface with fine linear engraving. The decoration includes a Greek Key (meander) border, incised ruyi-head clouds on the rim, and central inlaid floral sprays. It contains inlaid bone or mother-of-pearl for the petals and copper for the leaves.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible on the face; however, items of this style often feature incised Chinese characters (shop marks) or 'China' on the reverse. The visible script on the right side is likely poetic verse or a dedication rather than a marker's stamp.
Construction Details
Hand-raised and spun alloy plate with a scalloped, lobed rim. The inlays are set into hand-chased recesses and polished flush with the surface (Zuo-Jing technique).
Functional Features
Lobed rim for easy gripping; flat well intended for holding small tea bowls, wine cups, or as a desk accessory (incense burner stand).
Handle & Grip Details
None; the scalloped edge provides a natural grip point for fingers.
Craftsmanship Details
Highly skilled hand-work is evident in the flush mounting of the inlays. The symmetry of the lobed rim indicates a master's hand in the spinning or hammering process, typical of high-end export workshops.
Authentication Indicators
The irregular, hand-cut nature of the calligraphic script and the specific 'dark' tarnish profile are consistent with Paktong alloy. The wear in the central well shows genuine age-related friction.
Origin & Manufacturing
China, likely the Guangdong province. Manufactured using traditional Chinese lapidary and metallurgy traditions known for intricate mixed-material joinery.
Era & Period
Late Qing Dynasty (c. 1880-1912) or Early Republic Period, reflecting the 'Export' style of merging Chinese traditional motifs with Western functional forms.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890-1920. The wear on the inlays and the specific style of the Greek Key border are characteristic of late 19th-early 20th-century export metalware.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Export' era where Chinese craftsmen adapted their millennia-old metalworking skills to satisfy the burgeoning Western middle-class demand for Orientalist decorative arts.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is significant surface oxidation and tarnish throughout. Several pieces of the shell/bone inlay are missing (indicated by white adhesive residue/cavities). There are light surface scratches and potential old adhesive residue near the center.
Value Estimate
$200 - $450 USD. The value is currently restricted by the missing inlay pieces; in mint condition, such a piece could command higher prices from collectors of Chinese Export metalware.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use aggressive silver dips as they can dissolve the organic adhesives holding the inlays. Clean with a soft, dry cloth or extremely mild soapy water. Professional restoration is required to replace missing mother-of-pearl segments.
Similar Pieces
Tuck Chang or Zee Wo silver trays (often .900 silver and purely engraved); Japanese 'Shakudo' or 'Shibuichi' mixed-metal plates, which usually feature higher relief/sculptural elements compared to this flat inlay.
Interesting Facts
The chrysanthemum depicted is one of the 'Four Gentlemen' in Chinese art, representing nobility. These trays were popular with Victorian travelers who found the 'exotic' mixed-material look more fascinating than standard European silver.