Chinese Export Silver & Enameled Articulated Carp Lotus and Wave Stand, C. 1900

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Description

Chinese Export Silver and Enameled Articulated Carp on Lotus and Wave Stand, Circa 1900
Consisting of four pieces

1. The … Read more Chinese Export Silver and Enameled Articulated Carp on Lotus and Wave Stand, Circa 1900
Consisting of four pieces

1. The Carp (Yu 鱼)
Form & Technique: The carp is constructed of multiple silver segments joined by fine internal wiring and chains, allowing it to flex and move realistically. This articulated technique is a hallmark of Chinese craftsmanship, emulating the natural undulation of a swimming fish.

Enamel Work: The scales are enameled in translucent red and amber over engraved silver, giving a shimmering depth. Fins and tail are shaded in red, white, and turquoise, while the eyes are inset with turquoise blue enamel—bringing lifelike animation.

Symbolism: In Chinese culture, the carp symbolizes perseverance, abundance, and success, as in the legend of the carp that swims upstream and transforms into a dragon (yu long men). Its red and gold hues further associate it with prosperity, luck, and joy.

2. The Lily Pad Base
The carp is mounted above a large enameled lotus leaf, shaded in light and dark greens with incised veins.

Meaning: The lotus (lianhua) is one of the most important Buddhist symbols, representing purity, rebirth, and enlightenment, as it rises unstained from the mud.

Together with the fish (yu), the lotus (lian) also creates a rebus for continuous abundance (lian nian you yu).

3. The Waves
A blue enamel wave element rises at the carp’s side, rendered in curling spirals with shaded turquoise-to-cobalt tones.

Symbolism: Water in Chinese decorative arts symbolizes wealth and the ever-flowing source of life. Waves paired with carp reinforce the idea of overcoming obstacles, referencing the carp leaping the Dragon Gate.

4. The Stand
The elements are assembled onto a hardwood stand, black-lacquered and carved to support the enameled leaf. Such bases were often made in Guangzhou or Shanghai for export.

The presentation mimics a miniature tableau, creating a sense of movement with the fish "leaping from the water."

An exceptional Chinese Export silver and enameled articulated carp, dating to the late Qing dynasty, circa 1900. This finely worked model depicts a carp leaping from stylized blue enamel waves above a lotus leaf, raised on its original hardwood stand to form a complete symbolic tableau.

The carp itself measures 8.5 inches long and is ingeniously constructed in articulated silver segments joined by internal wire, allowing the body to flex and undulate in a lifelike manner. Each scale is cloisonné enameled in translucent amber and red over engraved silver, while the fins and tail shimmer in shades of red, white, and turquoise. The turquoise-enameled eyes add a vivid, animated presence. At 249 grams of silver weight, it is substantial yet delicately balanced.

Beneath, a large lotus leaf is enameled in variegated greens with incised veins, paired with curling enamel waves in bright cobalt and turquoise tones. Together these elements carry deep symbolism: the carp (yu) is an emblem of perseverance, abundance, and triumph over adversity, while the lotus (lianhua) signifies purity and rebirth. Combined, they form the auspicious rebus lian nian you yu—“continuous years of abundance.” The crashing waves symbolize life’s challenges and the ever-flowing source of wealth, reinforcing the carp’s legendary ascent of the Dragon Gate.

Articulated silver carp were a specialty of Canton and Beijing workshops around 1890–1910, often exported to Europe as prized curiosities. Complete ensembles with their original enamel waves, lotus base, and stand are particularly rare, most surviving examples being separated or damaged over time.

Dimensions:
Overall with stand: 8.5" W × 7" H × 3.5" D
Carp alone: 8.5" W × 1.5" D × 3" H
Weight: 249 grams silver

Origin: China, Late Qing dynasty, circa 1900
Condition: Minor enamel wear and expected age patina; overall excellent presentation. See less