Page 283 - Chinese SIlver By Adrien Von Ferscht

This spice shaker [above left] complete with grinding
mechanism by Guang Ji, circa 1900, has been inspired by a
newly sprouting bamboo shoot. Bamboo is the most popular
plant in China; it is also the fastest growing plant on the planet.
It is considered to be a gentleman with perfect virtues, since it
combines upright integrity with accommodating flexibility; it
has a perfect of grace and strength [ying and yang]. !
!
!

!
!
!

!
!
!

!

Most Chinese silversmiths had a love
affair with Chinese junks, but Guang
Ji’s intricate circa 1915 model
demonstrates more than a
fascination, Usually these items are
nothing more than sophisticated
souvenir items; this is a presentation
piece to the captain of the S.S. Hsin
Peking. The latter was originally the
French ship Dunkirk that was
purchased and renamed Hsin Peking.
Since a Chinese Compradore was
responsible for the presentation, the
red pennants at the top of each mast
are not surprising since they are
there to induce the dragons to help
!
and protect the sailors.!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!