Antique Chinese Silver Floral Trinket Box with Gilt Interior – Circa 1900

A beautifully detailed antique Chinese silver trinket box, dating to approximately 1890–1920, and believed to be around the turn of the 20th century.

The rectangular hinged box is extensively decorated with raised and chased floral and foliate work, covering the lid and continuing around all four sides. The underside carries a series of Chinese character marks, consistent with the workshop and silver-quality marking system used on Chinese silver of the period.

The interior was originally gold washed/gilt. Much of this gilding has worn away during more than a century of use, although traces remain clearly visible, particularly inside the lid and around the edges. The silver exterior has likewise developed considerable natural patination, surface wear and scratching consistent with its age.

Rather than detracting from the piece, these signs of use form part of the history and character of an antique box believed to be over 100 years old.

Details

• Antique Chinese silver trinket box
• Circa 1900
• Approximate period: 1890–1920
• Chinese character marks to the underside
• Rectangular hinged design
• Detailed floral and foliate decoration
• Originally gilt/gold-washed interior
• Remaining traces of original gilding
• Natural patination, scratching and age-related wear
• Over a century of age and use reflected in its condition

Please study all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description and show the condition of this antique item.