Antique Chinese Export Sterling Silver Three-Piece Tea Set by Tuck Chang
A rare and exceptional Chinese Export sterling silver three-piece tea set by Tuck Chang of Shanghai, one of the most highly regarded and sought-after Chinese silversmiths and retailers working during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The remarkable quality of this set is immediately evident in the intricate embossed and chased bamboo decoration that envelops each piece. Finely rendered bamboo stalks and leaves rise in relief against a beautifully tooled background, creating wonderful depth and texture across the silver surfaces. The bamboo theme continues through the beautifully modeled handles, which have been crafted to resemble natural bamboo stems and give the entire service a wonderfully cohesive design.
The set consists of a teapot with hinged lid, a lidded sugar bowl, and a milk jug, creating an elegant and beautifully proportioned three-piece service.
Each piece features a polished shield-shaped cartouche to the front, traditionally intended for the owner's initials or family monogram. Remarkably, the cartouches on this set were never monogrammed, leaving them clean and untouched and adding considerably to the appeal of the service.
Tuck Chang operated in Shanghai during the flourishing period of the Chinese Export silver trade and became particularly celebrated for finely crafted silver pieces combining traditional Chinese decorative motifs with forms created for an international clientele. Bamboo was an especially appropriate subject, symbolizing strength, resilience, and longevity while lending itself beautifully to the silversmith's art.
With its intricate craftsmanship, beautifully coordinated decoration, and remarkable state of preservation, this is an outstanding example of Chinese Export silver. Whether displayed as a complete service, incorporated into a collection of Asian decorative arts, or used as an elegant centerpiece, it offers exceptional visual presence and historical interest.
Condition
Excellent antique condition.
The set is remarkably well preserved for its age with no notable damage or dings. There are a couple of small areas of surface corrosion to the interiors, together with gentle age-related patination and very minor surface wear to the silver. These characteristics are consistent with its age and contribute beautifully to the authentic character of the set.
Please review all photographs carefully, as they are considered part of the description and provide additional details regarding the silverwork, decoration, hallmarks, patina, and overall condition of this antique set.
Additional photographs are always available upon request.
Dimensions
Teapot
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Width (Handle to Spout): 8 1/2"
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Depth (Front to Back): 5"
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Overall Height (Including Lid Handle): 4 3/4"
- Weight 14.3 oz
Sugar Bowl
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Width (Including Handles): 5 3/4"
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Depth (Front to Back): 3 3/4"
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Overall Height (Including Lid Handle): 3 1/2"
- Weight 7.2 oz
Milk Jug
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Width (Handle to Spout): 5"
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Depth (Front to Back): 3 3/8"
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Maximum Height at Handle: 2 7/8"
- Weight 4.8 oz
Specifications
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Item #: GY1754
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Period: Late 19th / Early 20th Century
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Style: Chinese Export Silver
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Origin: Shanghai, China
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Maker: Tuck Chang
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Materials: Sterling Silver
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Set Includes: Teapot, Lidded Sugar Bowl, and Milk Jug
Features
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Rare three-piece Chinese Export silver tea service
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Made by renowned Shanghai silversmith and retailer Tuck Chang
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Sterling silver construction
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Intricately embossed and chased bamboo decoration
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Finely tooled background
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Sculptural bamboo-form handles
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Teapot with hinged lid
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Lidded sugar bowl
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Coordinating milk jug
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Unmonogrammed shield-shaped cartouches
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Remarkably well-preserved antique condition
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Highly collectible example of Chinese Export silver
Buy With Confidence
We understand that purchasing a fine antique piece online requires confidence. That's why we strive to provide clear descriptions and detailed photographs that accurately represent each item.
If you would like any additional information before purchasing, we're always happy to answer questions, provide additional photographs, or arrange a live video call so you can examine the set more closely.
Our goal is to ensure you feel completely confident in your purchase and delighted when your item arrives.
Complimentary Shipping & In-Store Pickup
This item includes complimentary shipping within the contiguous USA.
All smaller items are professionally packed with great care to ensure they arrive safely. Orders are typically dispatched within two business days of purchase.
For free in-store pickup at our Cary, North Carolina showroom, simply select "Pick Up" during checkout.
If you have any questions before placing your order, including shipping, combined purchases, or checkout, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're always happy to help ensure everything is handled smoothly.
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