c. 1890-1910 Wang Hing Chinese Export Silver Overlay Dragon Decanter – Figural Dragon Head Stopper, WH 90 Hong Kong

$1,200.00
An exceptional Chinese export silver overlay liquor decanter by Wang Hing of Hong Kong, dating to approximately 1890-1910. The clear glass pinch bottle is extensively decorated with finely engraved and chased silver overlay depicting sinuous cloud dragons amidst scrolling vaporous clouds. The highlight of the piece is the remarkable figural silver dragon head stopper. The horned dragon's head functions as a pouring mechanism, tilting upward to allow the contents to be dispensed while remaining attached to the vessel. Such elaborate figural treatment is encountered far less frequently than standard stoppers and demonstrates the high level of craftsmanship associated with the Wang Hing workshop. The underside is clearly marked "WH 90" together with a Chinese artisan's chop mark. The "90" mark indicates the high-grade silver standard commonly employed by leading Hong Kong export silversmiths of the period. Condition is excellent overall. The glass is free from damage, the silver overlay is complete with no losses noted, and the dragon-head pouring mechanism remains intact. The stopper presently appears firmly fitted and may have originally been intended to remain attached, with filling accomplished through a small funnel. Dragon's head is a little wobbly, but is secure, presents perfectly and functions well. Dimensions: 10.5" H Volume: about 30 fluid ounces Check out some of my other Chinese export silver here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP?ref=search_shop_redirect§ion_id=29377402 Or just browse around the shop! https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP
An exceptional Chinese export silver overlay liquor decanter by Wang Hing of Hong Kong, dating to approximately 1890-1910. The clear glass pinch bottle is extensively decorated with finely engraved and chased silver overlay depicting sinuous cloud dragons amidst scrolling vaporous clouds. The highlight of the piece is the remarkable figural silver dragon head stopper. The horned dragon's head functions as a pouring mechanism, tilting upward to allow the contents to be dispensed while remaining attached to the vessel. Such elaborate figural treatment is encountered far less frequently than standard stoppers and demonstrates the high level of craftsmanship associated with the Wang Hing workshop. The underside is clearly marked "WH 90" together with a Chinese artisan's chop mark. The "90" mark indicates the high-grade silver standard commonly employed by leading Hong Kong export silversmiths of the period. Condition is excellent overall. The glass is free from damage, the silver overlay is complete with no losses noted, and the dragon-head pouring mechanism remains intact. The stopper presently appears firmly fitted and may have originally been intended to remain attached, with filling accomplished through a small funnel. Dragon's head is a little wobbly, but is secure, presents perfectly and functions well. Dimensions: 10.5" H Volume: about 30 fluid ounces Check out some of my other Chinese export silver here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP?ref=search_shop_redirect§ion_id=29377402 Or just browse around the shop! https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP