Page 271 - Chinese SIlver By Adrien Von Ferscht

In the same streamlined neo-classical style and probably of the same period as the previously illustrated coffee
set, this pair of candlesticks is part of a set of four identical sticks all bearing the Fu Xian mark.

Tianjin was an important treaty port, its proximity to the northern capital [80 miles] made it effectively the
“gateway to Peking”. The Treaty of Tianjin allowed for the residence of foreign ambassadors in Beijing and
direct access for them to the Qing Court. Foreign merchants were also allowed to travel freely within China, in
principle.

In total, nine nations had a presence at Tianjin, each having its own concession area. Although the foreign
population was negligible in comparison to the Chinese population, the Western presence did act as a catalyst
for considerable growth and wealth.

Images courtesy of Pushkin Antiques, London; Joseph Cohen Antiques, London

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