Chinese Export Silver Cigarette Case Depicting the Bund and the Angel of Peace

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Chinese Export Silver Cigarette Case Depicting the Bund and the Angel of Peace, Shanghai, c. 1930–1940

129 grams, 4.5" W … Read more Chinese Export Silver Cigarette Case Depicting the Bund and the Angel of Peace, Shanghai, c. 1930–1940

129 grams, 4.5" W × 3.5" H × 0.33" D (8.75" W open)

A rare and historically significant Chinese export silver cigarette case, finely repoussé and chased with a panoramic view of the Shanghai Bund in the interwar years. The richly detailed scene depicts the domed HSBC Building (1923) and the Customs House with its neoclassical clock tower (1927), flanked by rows of early automobiles lining the embankment. In the foreground, sampans and steamers cluster along the Huangpu River, underscoring Shanghai’s status as the “Paris of the East.”

Dominating the right is the monumental Angel of Peace—a winged allegorical figure holding children—erected in 1924 as the European War Victory Memorial by sculptor Henry Fehr. The statue, dismantled by Japanese occupation authorities in 1941–43, survives today only in archival photographs and rare period souvenirs such as this case.

The interior retains its original gilded wash and fitted clasp. At 129 grams, the case has a satisfying weight, balancing utility with artistry. Unmarked, as is common with Shanghai workshop silver, but likely. 900 fine.

Such Bund cases occupy a coveted niche among collectors of Chinese export silver, Art Deco objects, and Shanghai memorabilia. See less