CHINESE EXPORT SILVER EATERS

A Chinese Export silver boxed set of 12 knives and forks – 24 pieces in all Each piece has solid handles worked with bamboo detail. The blades of knives are also engraved with the bamboo motif Bamboo is celebrated for the ability to bend without breaking in adversity. Revered for its hollow nature, it represents humility and purity, and is a popular symbol of good luck, prosperity, and steady personal growth. Each item is clearly marked for Wang Hing of Hong Kong Probably the greatest and finest Chinese Export retailer, Wang Hing started trading in Canton soon after 1842 when, with the end of the First Opium War and the treaty of Nanking , China opened its ports to foreign merchants and Hong Kong became a British colony. Thanks to the fine quality of the pieces and to the entrepreneurial abilities of the family members, the reputation of the firm grew and in 1920’s Lo Hung Tong, grandson of the founder, opened a shop at 10 Queen’s Road, Hong Kong and in Shanghai. These eaters were almost certainly crafted for fruits but would also be excellent for salads or cheese This set is a rare find indeed – these eaters are in excellent condition in the original pale blue silk lined wooden box – a treasure!