1890-1910 Tuck Chang & Co. Silver Dresser Jar / Tea Caddy with Chrysanthemum Repoussé, Shanghai (187 grams)

$950.00
This finely executed silver dresser jar exemplifies the high level of craftsmanship associated with Tuck Chang & Co., one of the most prominent Chinese export silver houses operating in Shanghai during the late Qing dynasty. The firm, active circa 1870–1925, was well known for catering to Western clientele, producing luxurious decorative and utilitarian objects that harmonized Chinese artistic motifs with European forms. The interior is gilded. Gauge of the silver is medium to heavy. Excellent quality. The surface of the jar is richly decorated in high-relief repoussé chrysanthemums, set against a contrasting stippled ground. The chrysanthemum (菊, jú) is a flower of profound cultural significance in Chinese symbolism. Associated with autumn and endurance, it represents integrity and perseverance, especially in the face of adversity. The lid features a circular reserve engraved with a single Gothic letter "M," likely denoting the original owner. This Western monogram, juxtaposed with the traditional Chinese decorative vocabulary, underscores the cosmopolitan nature of Chinese export silver in this period—an object produced in Asia with dual appeal to both local elites and foreign markets. While originally conceived as a dresser jar—perhaps for creams, powders, or small personal items—its lidded cylindrical form also lends itself readily to repurposing as a tea caddy. The interior is clean and retains the original finish, further supporting its functional versatility. This piece bears both the Latin-character mark of Tuck Chang and a Chinese character mark identifying the local silversmith. Tuck Chang was among the elite class of Shanghai silver houses who employed highly skilled Chinese artisans capable of working to exacting standards. Their works are increasingly sought after for their technical merit, historical significance, and aesthetic appeal. A superb example of export silver at its peak, this jar offers collectors and connoisseurs an object of elegance, cultural resonance, and practical beauty. Dimensions: 2.75" x 3.25" 187 grams Check out some other silver holloware from around the world: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP?ref=shop_sugg§ion_id=6783258 Or just browse the whole shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP
This finely executed silver dresser jar exemplifies the high level of craftsmanship associated with Tuck Chang & Co., one of the most prominent Chinese export silver houses operating in Shanghai during the late Qing dynasty. The firm, active circa 1870–1925, was well known for catering to Western clientele, producing luxurious decorative and utilitarian objects that harmonized Chinese artistic motifs with European forms. The interior is gilded. Gauge of the silver is medium to heavy. Excellent quality. The surface of the jar is richly decorated in high-relief repoussé chrysanthemums, set against a contrasting stippled ground. The chrysanthemum (菊, jú) is a flower of profound cultural significance in Chinese symbolism. Associated with autumn and endurance, it represents integrity and perseverance, especially in the face of adversity. The lid features a circular reserve engraved with a single Gothic letter "M," likely denoting the original owner. This Western monogram, juxtaposed with the traditional Chinese decorative vocabulary, underscores the cosmopolitan nature of Chinese export silver in this period—an object produced in Asia with dual appeal to both local elites and foreign markets. While originally conceived as a dresser jar—perhaps for creams, powders, or small personal items—its lidded cylindrical form also lends itself readily to repurposing as a tea caddy. The interior is clean and retains the original finish, further supporting its functional versatility. This piece bears both the Latin-character mark of Tuck Chang and a Chinese character mark identifying the local silversmith. Tuck Chang was among the elite class of Shanghai silver houses who employed highly skilled Chinese artisans capable of working to exacting standards. Their works are increasingly sought after for their technical merit, historical significance, and aesthetic appeal. A superb example of export silver at its peak, this jar offers collectors and connoisseurs an object of elegance, cultural resonance, and practical beauty. Dimensions: 2.75" x 3.25" 187 grams Check out some other silver holloware from around the world: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP?ref=shop_sugg§ion_id=6783258 Or just browse the whole shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP