Chinese Export Sterling Silver Creamer and Sugar by Cutshing - A Pair

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A two-piece set sterling silver creamer and sugar signed "CUT" and "TienXing" in Chinese, circa second half of 19th century. … Read more A two-piece set sterling silver creamer and sugar signed "CUT" and "TienXing" in Chinese, circa second half of 19th century. Cutshing was a Chinese silversmith located at 8 New China Street in Canton, active c.1825-1875. The CU conjoined mark was used 1825-1840, the CU mark 1850-1860 and the CUT 1840-1870. This helps dating the set to the second half of the 19th century. The width of the sugar and creamer is 7" and 6.2" respectively.
The surface of this lovely set features a dense and elaborate floral motifs of peony and chrysanthemum blossom and butterflies. The design was nicely executed in repousse with high relief on a subtly hammered background. By contrast, the lid and the handles were left rather plain in form more familiar in the west. The appeal was unique of the period piece of the export silvers with strong characteristics of chinoiserie and high craftsmanship to meet the western taste. See less