Chinese Silver Picture Frame

This enchanting frame is an important example of Chinese export silver. The frame is beautifully crafted in an intricate bamboo motif, featuring stalks set against a fine hammered ground. Delightful avian figures are delicately carved throughout the foliate design, adding a captivating touch to the attractive motif. The charming piece bears the mark of Luen Hung, a silversmith active in Shanghai from 1880-1925.

In the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, silver workshops in China specialized in the manufacture of silver export pieces for Western tourists. Typically bearing motifs that were popular amongst the visiting Europeans such as dragons, bamboo and floral patterns, these charming pieces were all beautifully handcrafted with the utmost skill. Today, important pieces of Chinese export silver such as this one can be found in many of the major museum collections, and are highly valued amongst collectors.

Circa 1890

9 3/4" high x 7 3/4" wide