A scarce and unusual antique Chinese silver and hardstone inlaid snuff box or stash pot. It was probably a commissioned piece gifted to someone or made in celebration of an event such as securing a good job etc. Chinese men often hid them in the sleeves of their Changpao. The lid is very well decorated with inlaid translucent hardstone with a deer and a crane by a river underneath a phoenix tree. There are a number of possible meanings that could be taken from the combination of images according to Chinese lore. Longevity, the six harmonies and togetherness are a few. The box is hallmarked on the underside with a Chinese hallmark and an image of golden horse, this is the mark of the Beijing retail and manufacturing silversmith Bao Hua Lou, previously just Bao Hua, late 19th century / early 20th century mark, information on the mark, maker and the symbolism very kindly provided by the world renowned Mr A V Ferscht, if you have not seen his comprehensive website or read his book then I highly recommend it. It is a very attractive and unique piece of Chinese silver. Good condition overall with some signs of use and wear commensurate with age, there is a small ding to the lid so it doesn’t quite close flush, see photos. Approx 1″ height, 1.25″ diameter and weighs approx 23.34 grams.
