Page 182 - Chinese SIlver By Adrien Von Ferscht

Both the crab and the conch shell have significance as Chinese cultural symbols. The conch is one of the Eight
Buddhist Symbols [bajixiang ] and originally is derived from older Hindu belief where it was considered a
symbol of royalty. In Buddhist culture it is seen as being a symbol of the pure and true teachings of the Buddha.
It is also perceived as a symbol of Buddha’s voice and is used to call worshippers to prayer. In ancient times,
conch shells were considered of high value and were used as currency, particularly white shells. The crab is
representative of harmony.

The finish to the bottom of this
bowl is highly unusual for
Chinese silver and the parcel
gilded interior is particularly
bright so that it is in contrast to
the copper of the crab.

A small quatrefoil-shaped snuff box by Cheong Lam with a
double traditional Chinese meander border to the top and bottom
of the sides of the box.

To a Westerner this would be seen as being a quatrefoil box; to a
Chinese person this would be seen as lingzhi-shape - lingo being
a prized fungus that symbolises great health and longevity