An early 20^th century Chinese export silver bowl, Shanghai circa 1920, marked Hou Xiang, retailed by Hung Chong of Shanghai

Republic period. Of lobed circular form with a moulded scalloped rim, all upon a spreading circular foot. The body with cast and applied decoration of a four fruit trees, Buddha’s hand, pomegranate, lychee, and star fruit. Marked underneath with artisan mark 厚祥 (HOU XIANG), retailer’s mark HC, and SHANGHAI.

Height – 10.6 cm / 4.25 inches

Diameter – 19.6 cm / 7.75 inches

Weight – 536 grams / 17.23 ozt

Hou Xiang

These workshops were located in Canton and Shanghai.

A pierced dragon bowl by this workshop and retailed by Lee Ching is illustrated Kwan. S. (2018) Chinese Export Silver – The Muwen Tang Collection. Hong Kong: Muwen Tang Fine Arts Publication Ltd. p. 216-217, f.71.

A pierced bowl by this workshop and retailer, also with an Austrian import mark for 1902-37, was sold these rooms, 11 June 2021, lot 228 (£425 incl. prem)