Bidspirit auction | CHINESE EXPORT GILT SILVER TEA

CHINESE EXPORT GILT SILVER TEA SERVICE WITH ENAMELS AND CABOCHONS CHINA, EARLY 20TH CENTURY - An elegant Chinese export tea service crafted in silver with rich interior and partial exterior gilding, representing a refined example of early 20th century decorative art created for the European market. The ensemble demonstrates harmonious proportions and balanced symmetry: a pear-shaped teapot with an elongated curved spout and sculptural handle, eight cups, and an oval tray forming a complete ceremonial set. The surfaces are lavishly decorated with repoussé and chased foliate scrollwork enhanced by polychrome enamels. Central medallions on the teapot and cups depict naturalistic scenes with deer and cranes set among rocks and foliage. In Chinese symbolism, the deer represents prosperity and longevity, while the crane signifies spiritual purity and immortality, lending the service an additional allegorical dimension. The bodies are inlaid with coral and turquoise cabochons set into ornamental mounts, reinforcing the exotic Eastern character of the ensemble. The handle and spout are accented with vivid green and blue enamel details. The interiors of the cups and teapot are finished in mirror-like gilding, creating a warm golden luminosity. Hallmarks: Maker’s mark in the form of a swan; stamped “SILVER”. Dimensions: Teapot – 23 × 19 cm; Tray – 38.5 × 26 cm; Cups – 4.8 × 5.5 cm. Weight: 1513 g. Condition: Good. Even gilding. Minor signs of age and handling. No visible deformations, cracks, or enamel losses. Provenance: Private European collection. Condition : Good Warranty : Seller Warranty Material : Silver, Gilding, Stamping, Enamel Product sizes : Height - 23cm, Width - 38.5cm, Depth - 26cm Location : Gallery ”Antiqon”, Brivibas street 52, Riga, Latvia Gifts : Other Style : Chinoiserie Country : China Period : 20th century