Silver Dragons

This silver pagoda form inkwell features a square shaped lid adorned in high relief with two dragons intertwined. The dragons are detailed with visible scales and swirling bodies. Each corner of the inkwell’s base has a dragon’s head that extends into feet or claws, serving as supports. The sides of the base also have detailed relief work that complements the dragons on the lid. It is made of silver (marked “90”) along with the silversmith’s Chinese hallmarks.

This inkwell is believed to be a Chinese export piece made by Wang Hing, a renowned silversmith known for producing high-quality Chinese export silver items. Wang Hing was a prominent name in the world of Chinese export silver during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The name “Wang Hing” was likely a created name, intended to bring good luck and success, rather than the actual name of the business owner.

The firm was established in Canton (now Guangzhou) around 1854 by the wealthy Lo merchant family. Wang Hing & Co. became renowned for their high-quality silver items, which often featured intricate designs combining traditional Chinese motifs with Western forms.