Page 318 - Chinese SIlver By Adrien Von Ferscht

The previously illustrated presentation stemmed bowl is both dramatic and distinctively different from similar
pieces by other Canton silversmiths. The twin scrolled snake-form handles are very unusual as is the applied
relief treatment of the flowering prunus and foliate otic on the main body of the bowl and the manner it entwines
the stem and appears to naturally cling to the bowl as if it were growing.

This highly elegant épergne dates to 1870. On a triangular base, the baluster stem supports six detachable
branches draped with grape vines and fruiting grapes that terminate with circular dishes and a larger central
dish. The piece carries the following inscription:

HANKOW SPRING MEETING
1870 Champion Stakes
Won by
Mr Williams’ “Usury” ridden by R.W.W.

The proliferation of sporting clubs and gentlemen’s clubs in the post 1842 treaty ports, of which Hankow was
one, engendered a huge amount of trophy items being commissioned from silversmiths in Hong Kong and
China. They are highly collectable and are historic items in their own right as they are so indicative of the age
and the more localised geo-politics.