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Kwan Wo was located in Hong Kong, a port/island ceded to the British following the Treaty of Nanking in 1842 and which flourished from the China export trade.

Hong Kong, late 19th/early 20thC

Hong Kong, late 19th/early 20thC

Hong Kong, late 19th/early 20thC
 
Kwan Wo

Time Period:
Around 1870 to 1925

Location:
Thought to be Canton or Hong Kong

Maker Information:
Not much is known about this maker other than he was probably active in the late 19th and early 20th century. Some scholars believe this maker could also be the same maker marked “Kwong Wa”.

Marks:
The mark of Kwan Wo has been observed invarious different forms. It is known to exist in the following forms:

 KW   KW with shop mark  
 KW, 90, and shop mark   KW 90 


Known workshop/artisan marks:
Kwan Wo was known to employ different workshops/ shop marks. Known workshops/ shop marks are as follows:


Examples and their marks:

Item # 1 – Kwan Wo
Provenance: From the Shen Rong collection
Form: Salver with reticulated border with 8 alternating interior panels of mandarins, bamboo, dragons, and chrysanthemums on bun feet.
Dimensions: 8 inches diameter by 0.25 inches tall click to view larger image

Item # 2 – Kwan Wo
Provenance: Private collection
Form: Toothpick holder with applied dragon design on base with bamboo supports
Dimensions: 3.25 inches tall by 1 inches wide at base click to view larger image

Item # 3 – Kwan Wo
Provenance: From the Shen Rong collection
Form: Apostle Spoon with bamboo stem and gilt bowl, the figurine shows a Manchu court official in ceremonial robe.
Dimensions: 5 inches long click to view larger image

 

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Copyright © 2007 chineseexportsilver.com
This online resource website features an Exhibits Gallery of Chinese Export Silver as well as Makers' Marks and translations. Marks include Luen Wo, Wang Hing, Tuck Chang, Mao Xing, Wing Nam, Wing On, Zeewo, Lao Feng Xiang, Cut Shing, etc. Periodically the information will be updated to feature the contributions from visitors. We hope that you will enjoy the visual exhibits of CES.