Antique Chinese Export Silver Photograph Frame

This exceptional antique Chinese silver frame has a shaped rectangular form with a rectangular internal window.

The photograph frame has been realistically modelled in the form of bamboo stalks, accented with a cast and applied foliate motif to the upper corner.

This fine example of antique Chinese silverware is fitted with an impressive back and original silver strut.

This silver frame is inset with a removable glass panel.

The hallmarks struck to the reverse of this fine Chinese silver frame include:
Silver quality/purity mark: 90 (90 standard, 900/1000)
Artisan mark: ? (Ren, Canton)
Retailer’s mark: C*

NOTE: * This mark should be displayed as the Roman letter ‘C’ with themark for ? ZHONG [Cantonese ZUNG] within; a logo that denotes ‘CENTRAL’, referencing the main commercial Hong Kong district known as ‘Central’. The artisans mark REN ? often appears alongside the Central/Zhong symbol on items that were made for the Hong Kong department store SINCERE & Co [???? Xianshi gongsi].

We are grateful to Adrien von Ferscht for his information and help in identifying the hallmarks of this exceptional antique piece.

Condition
This silver frame in Chinese silver is an exceptional gauge of silver, exceptional quality and in exceptional condition.

The engraved decoration very crisp.

The Chinese hallmarks struck to the reverse of the frame are very clear; the hallmarks are struck deeply due to the exceptional gauge of silver.

Reflections in photographs may detract from the true representation of this piece of antique Chinese Export Silver frame.

Dimensions
Height 18.9cm/7.4′
Height of internal window 15.8cm/6.2′
Width 13.6cm/5.4′
Width of internal window 10.6cm/4.2′
Depth 2cm/0.8′

Date: circa 1910
Origin: Canton / Hong Kong, China.