2 Antique Chinese Export Silver Dragon Napkin Rings

2 Extraordinary Chinese Export Silver napkin rings are a testament to the master craftsmanship of the late 19th-century Shanghai workshops. Weighing in at 49 g each, these are remarkably heavy, high-gauge pieces that offer a tactile sense of luxury rarely found in modern silver.

The Mark of the Master

The interior of each ring is clearly struck with authentic hallmarks that anchor these pieces in history:

• The Maker’s Mark: The vertical cartouche features the artisan stamp "Zee Wo" (or similar Shanghai master), a renowned retailer operating on Honan Road in Shanghai during the late Qing Dynasty.

• Purity & Location: The top horizontal stamp identifies the origin as Shanghai and serves as a testimony of silver quality.

Design & Artistry

• Intricate "Dragon & Cloud" motif. Each dragon is rendered with high-relief scales, whiskers, and fierce expressions, flanking a classic heraldic shield. These symbolize power, strength, and good fortune. **Please note - right napkin ring missing dragon breath, top right side of ring.

• Blank Shield Cartouches: Unlike many surviving antique sets, these rings feature pristine, *unengraved shields. They are ready to be personalized with your own initials or a family crest, effectively making you the first "named" owner in their century-long history.

• Substantial Weight: At ~49 g per ring, they carry more than double the weight of standard silver napkin rings, providing a weighted, premium feel on the table.

Chinese Export Silver is a rapidly appreciating field for collectors. Pieces from established Shanghai makers like Zee Wo are prized for their "Chinese Victorian" aesthetic!

*Sold as set only*

Curation: As part of our curated collection, each piece is a unique, vintage, or pre-owned item. We take great care to provide high-resolution photography and detailed gram weights to ensure full transparency.

• Final Sale: To maintain the integrity of our inventory, all sales are final. We do not accept returns or exchanges. We encourage our patrons to review all specifications and reach out direct with any questions prior to purchase.

AUTHENTICITY & MARKS Items are professionally inspected for period-correct hallmarks and maker’s marks (e.g., .925, BGE, Tiffany & Co.). Descriptions are based on these physical stamps and historical research. All brand names are guaranteed authentic as hallmarked. 

VINTAGE CONDITION This is a vintage estate item and will show signs of "life"—natural patina, light surface scuffs, or age-appropriate wear. We leave original patina intact to preserve historical value; if you prefer a high-shine finish, polishing is left to the buyer’s discretion.

INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMS & TAXES Ships from Victoria, BC, Canada. International buyers: Import duties and taxes are not included in the item price and are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your local customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to purchasing.