ANTIQUE 20THC CHINESE TUCK CHANG SOLID SILVER LO SHU & CRANE CANDLESTICKS C.1900

DESCRIPTION

Antique 20th Century rare Chinese solid silver decorative pair of candlesticks, realistically modelled as pair of cranes standing on a tortoise, mounted on a hand carved, pierced wood base. cranes with turned heads grasping a cherry blossom branch terminating in a candle sconce and nozzle.

Ancient feng shui texts notes that the crane is one of the most important bird symbol. The crane represents the patriarch of the kingdom of the wings and is the bird of immortality. The beautiful crane can fly to heaven and is endowed with many mythical attributes and is the symbol immortality, happiness and longevity. Meanwhile, the tortoise at the bottom of the crane is one of the four celestial animals (Dragon, Phoenix, Tiger and Tortoise). The tortoise is as important as the dragon. It is the greatest sign of longevity, stability, steadiness, good fortune, support and protection. Very suitable as the best anniversary gift or birthday gift. The receiver is said to achieve good health, longevity, safety, fame, riches and long career.

Hallmarked with Chinese silver marks (900+ standard), possibly Austrian or French import mark, Makers mark for Tuck Chang & Company (active 1870-1920). Probably one of the best known retail silversmiths of the latter half of the 19th century in Shanghai - often referred to as being the ‘Wang Hing’ of Shanghai. Like Wang Hing of Canton and Hong Kong, Tuck Chang sold high quality jewellery, silver wares, jade and ivory. While having its own working relationships with Shanghai-based artisan silversmiths helped create a style other than that of Canton and Hong Kong. For more information please see A.Von Ferscht, Chinese Export Silver 1785-1940, 4th edition 2015.
 

CONDITION

In Excellent Condition - No Damage.

SIZE

Height: 27cm
Width: 8cm
Combined Weight: 450g