188 - AN IMPORTANT CHINESE EXPORT SILVER PRESENTATION CUP

AN IMPORTANT CHINESE EXPORT SILVER PRESENTATION CUP China, Shanghai, dated 1900 (Gengzi year), H 31.5 cm. 2056 g. Flanked by dragon handles, high-relief chased with a dragon amongst clouds, incised with the four-character motto He Chong Gong Ji (“Working Together in Harmony”) and a 8-column historical presentation inscription. The base stamped LUENWO and with an artisan seal mark; side stamped with the purity mark Wen Yin (Standard Silver). This fine presentation cup carries a historical inscription recording the events of the Boxer Rebellion in 1900 (Gengzi year) at Yantai (Chefoo), Shandong Province. Presented by Li Xijie (Superintendent of the East Customs / Yantai Maritime Customs), the cup honours John Noel Tratman, the British Consul stationed in Yantai during the crisis. The text notes that while the Shandong region was at the epicentre of the conflict, peace was maintained due to the concerted efforts of local and foreign officials. Following the uprising, foreign consuls were awarded imperial Chinese decorations (Order of the Double Dragon). However, British consular regulations prohibited Consul Tratman from accepting foreign honours. To express gratitude and formal recognition, this silver presentation cup was specially commissioned and presented in tribute. * The full tax is charged on this item marked *, i.e. VAT is charged on the sum will be refunded to Purchasers providing a validly stamped export declaration.