Lot 394
  • 394

A Chinese export silver two-handled race cup, Hung Chong, Canton and Shanghai, circa 1912

Estimate
3,000 - 5,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • silver
  • 32cm., 12 1/2 in. high
the entwined bamboo pattern stem rising to a hexagonal bowl applied with birds and flowering sprays, the foot inscribed, gilt interior

Condition

One tiny dent to one panel, tips of two willow branches are lacking (approx 0.2cm each), otherwise lovely chasing, good clear marks and overall excellent condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

The inscription reads: 'HANKOW 1912. CHINESE RACE CLUB CUP. WON BY GAYHURST.'
‘CHINESE RACE CLUB. In his report on the trade of Hankow, Mr. Sugden, the English Acting Commissioner of Customs, writes:- In the spring the wealthy Chinese, on the initiative of compradores of foreign firms, started the first Chinese race club. Ten thousand taels were subscribed and within two weeks a temporary course was laid out, ponies collected, and a meeting held with great enthusiasm. During the summer – the club – capital, 100,000dol – laid out a property, given by one of its members, on the plain close to the city and concession. It abandoned its autumn meeting after the first day’s racing on account of the death of the Emperor. The club is run on the lines of the foreign club, gentlemen jockeys only being allowed. A most striking evidence of the change that is coming over China is afforded by these young men of the rich gentlemen class riding out to train in the early morning, and competing on race days – working hard, sacrificing personal comfort and old ideas for the sake of sport and the honor of a prize – while the older generation, brought up to consider bodily exercise derogatory, watches, applauds, and enjoys itself thoroughly in an unrestrained manner, utterly opposed to the ideas of a decade ago.’ (The Evening News, Sydney, NSW, Wednesday, 19 January 1910, p. 6)