Hammered Copper Vase Inlaid With Silver And Alloys. China, Qing Dynasty, 19th Century.

This small hammered copper vase is inlaid with silver and different metals in 3 copper alloys, giving respectively tones of yellow, brown and cream, this very particular technique of mixed metals that one never meets on similar objects made in Vietnam at the end of the 19th century, announces a totally different object, moreover the aesthetics and the style of the drawings is not Vietnamese as well as the form, this is a Chinese creation of the 19th century and perhaps earlier. It is a rare technique which is inspired by Japanese alloys. Very early, the Chinese were interested in copper alloys giving different shades, notably the black Wutong resembling the Japanese Shakudo, without however equaling it. Chinese objects in Wutong are very rare; in Europe, only the British hosts one. It is interesting to compare the very subtle difference in shade between one of the silver flowers and one of the stems in an alloy of almost identical color (see photos). But these alloys must not have interested the Chinese craftsmen who did not persevere. Here the presence of three alloys in addition to the silver and the copper base, bringing to 5 the number of metals used for this creation makes it a rare object and interesting. Height: 16cm. Good condition, base a little twisted but easily straightened. We can straighten it easily on request at no cost. Very beautiful old patina leather color.