Chinese Export Silver Biscuit Box
Status: FOR SALE
Chinese Export Silver Biscuit Box circa 1890, of quatrefoil form. The retailer is Wang Hing, and the maker is 慎昌 (Shen Chang). The front and back panels are embossed and chased with court and battle scenes, and the two side panels with bamboo. The removable lid has a bamboo finial and is further decorated with bamboo and prunus. The skirted base has acanthus leaf decoration all around, and the box is completed with four feet of bamboo.
The court scene depicts the celebrated friendship between the distinguished Song Dynasty statesmen Fan Zhongyan (范仲淹) (989－1052) and Han Qi (韩琦) (1008－1075), renowned for their integrity, wisdom, and dedication to both civil and military affairs. The battle scene on the reverse features three warriors on horseback, two soldiers, and two flag-bearers.
In the upper right of the court scence, Han Qi is seated at a desk, attended by a figure holding a flag inscribed with the character “韩”; in the lower left, Fan Zhongyan is shown on horseback, his banner marked with the character “范”.
Fan Zhongyan was a renowned politician and literary figure, who is remembered for his immortal words in Yueyang Tower (岳阳楼记): “Be the first to worry for the world’s troubles, and the last to enjoy its joys.” Han Qi, famed for his loyalty, prudence, and martial capability, governed frontier regions with fairness. Known for his forthright counsel, he often spoke boldly to the emperor in service of the state.
Fan Zhongyan and Han Qi’s collaboration on reforms and their mutual support reflect a shared commitment to national welfare, uniting civil virtue with military acumen. This depiction celebrates not only their individual merits but also their rare and enduring friendship.
Price range
£10k+
enquire nowProduct Details
Height(including finial): 180mm Width (with of base): 178mm Depth (with of base): 165mm
