Chinese Export Silver Dragon Serving Tray

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An elaborately decorated silver serving dish or butler's tray, likely dated to the turn of the 20th century, made in … Read more An elaborately decorated silver serving dish or butler's tray, likely dated to the turn of the 20th century, made in China for the export market. The round tray has a solid center in contrast with a pierced outer band of repoussé design that depicts a slithering dragon through the clouds. The center roundel itself showcases a meticulously chased dragon, coiled on a textured background with tight punching pattern. The design, with the main elements echoing each other, despite of clearly cratering to the western taste, is rather wholesome and pleasing. The workmanship was of a high quality and impressive in details, which elevates the piece to a work of art. It was marked underneath "Jin Ji" Silver. "Jin Ji" means Jin's mark (Jin being a Chinese surname). The maker, however, could not be identified. See less