ANTIQUE 20thC CHINESE EXPORT SOLID SILVER "PANDARA JATAKA" BOX, BAO XING

Antique 20th Century Chinese export solid silver box, made for Thai market. The box is fully repoussé-decorated in high relief scenes from Burmese mythology, specifically the Pandara Jataka. The box is mounted on four raised feet and the underneath plain in style. What makes this piece particularly rare is that, while most Chinese export silver of the period was intended for Western markets, this box was created with a distinctively different design.

Unlike typical Chinese silver, which features dragons, lotus flowers, orchids, and other exotic motifs, this example is uniquely adorned with Burmese mythological imagery. The Pandara Jataka (Jataka 518) tells of a five headed Naga king (Snake), Pandra, whose secret defense against enemies is betrayed by a deceitful ascetic, leading to the Naga's capture. The five heads symbolise the five elements; earth, water, fire, air and space. Highlighting the Naga's connection to natural forces and role as a guardian. The story underscores themes of trust, betrayal and moral consequences, showing the ascetic's downfall as a warning against dishonesty.

Depictions of this tale in Burmese art often feature the majestic multi headed Naga, reflecting its supernatural power. This piece stands as both a sacred vessel and a cultural artifact, elegantly merging technical mastery with moral and spiritual resonance. Hallmarked Chinese silver, Maker's mark B.H (B.H for Bo Hing, alternative of Bao Xing). The mark for Bao Xing is illustrated in Bromberg, P., (2019), Thai SIlver and Nielloware, Bangkok: River Books, p. 192 fig. 7.04. where it is written “It is claimed that this silversmith operated in Canton from 1860-1910, but unfortunately, to date, no supporting evidence has come to light. The Bao Xing atelier appears to have specialised in high-relief repousse work.”

Reference Number: A00024