Page 277 - Chinese SIlver By Adrien Von Ferscht

This circa 1860 lidded standing cup by
Gem Wo is a monumental statement
piece - the bowl of the cup has an
almost layered-effect profusely chased
and embossed scene of warriors with
attendants set with a scene of pavilions.

The cup is magnificently support on
four bamboo trunks, the bamboo foliage
at the tip of the trunks actually acting as
a support basket for the cup. In the
Chinese traditional manner, the trunks
have exposed roots on a mound. which
symbolise the steadfastness of a
gentleman according to Confucian
tradition.

The identity of the bird atop the bamboo
fronds forming the finial is unclear but
is highly likely to be a magpie; a single
magpie at the top of a bamboo branch
signifies the impending arrival of good
news.