The Gerard Collection of Chinese Export Silver
Lots: 125
Viewing at 6 Roslin Square, W3 8DH
Auction to be held 1 Roslin Square, W3 8DH at 13:00
The Gerard collection of Chinese export silver has been composed over the last twenty years of studious pursuit, and consists of 125 lots. Originating from a single birthday gift of a tea caddy, a fascination with aesthetic, form, markings, and history was borne that resulted in the multifarious and captivating sale now brought together. Sought out from purchases across the world, this collection broadly represents an excellent cross section of the typical forms, decorative patterns, retailers, and artisans active chiefly in Canton and Shanghai in the late Qing and early Republic period. The “China Trade” period begins this important phase of the West’s various interactions with the silverware of China. Initially producing distinctly 'Anglo' type pieces that mirrored those made in London, from the mid-19th century we find the beginning of the characteristic forms and decoration that were to last nearly a century across a wide range of vessels and objects.
Since the late 20th century publications have brought focus to this distinct genre of silver and the various marks found upon it. However, in recent decades an important shift in understanding and appreciation has been affected by studying the marks found in Chinese characters upon most of the silver from 1850 onwards, alongside those in Latin, or those imitating English hallmarks. It is these Chinese character marks that reveal the artisans or workshops responsible in producing these finely crafted wares, and their interactions with a wide network of retailers. These retailers often marked in Latin letters and were initially given credit for producing these objects. The Gerard collection contains a broad selection of artisans as well as retailers from across the spectrum including the prominent workshops of Qiu, Sui Chang, Ye Bo, Kun He, and Tai Chang Long. As well as the classic item of Chinese export silver, the three-piece tea set, we find trays, tea caddies, goblets, mugs, comports, boxes, ewers, and a wide variety of bowls.
Lot 109 - A late 19th century Chinese export silver mug, Canton circa 1890, marked Shen Chang
Sold for £1,512
Includes Buyer's Premium
Lot 114 - A late 19th century Chinese export silver coffee pot, Canton circa 1890, marked Qing Yuan
Sold for £2,268
Includes Buyer's Premium
