Pewter Jug & Sugar bowl set. Chinese Swatow. Rare Antique, Chong Xiang Mark. For Sale

Rare Antique Chinese Swatow Pewter Cream & Sugar Set. Chong Xiang Mark.
This rare set comes withhandwritten provenance which explains their motifs and the name of the scholar who gifted them (the full explanation which is detailed below.
This matching set in excellent condition, with some fantastic patina & provenance.
Description Overview:Offered for sale is a beautiful, matching two-piece set of antique Chinese Export Pewter Hollowware, featuring a double-handled sugar bowl with its original lid and a matching creamer pitcher.This set originates from the historic metalworking hub of Swatow (Shantou) in the Guangdong Province of China, dating to the late Qing Dynasty to the early Republic Period (circa 1890–1920).
Artisan & Quality Hallmarks:The underside of both vessels features crisp, deeply struck artisan hallmarks:
Shop/Maker Mark:The circular stamp reads “崇祥” (Chong Xiang), a scarcer and highly collectable family workshop name from the Swatow region.
Quality Seal:The square frame contains the traditional character mark “点铜” (Dian Tong), translating to \"Point Copper.\" This historic guild mark guarantees a premium-grade alloy composed of over 70% pure pewter/tin, strengthened with copper.
Design & Craftsmanship:Both pieces feature exquisite, hand-chased (etched) decorative panels depicting traditional Chinese flora—including chrysanthemums and plum blossoms—arranged in classical vases. This motif traditionally symbolizes longevity, resilience, and elegance.The sugar bowl lid is crowned with its original, intact circular finial knob made of a vibrant red material mimicking carnelian agate / cinnabar lacquer, which provides a striking visual contrast to the muted grey metal.Top:4 bats — blessings or happiness or joy\": The lid of the sugar basin features stylised bats moulded into the metal. In Chinese culture, the word for bat (fú, 蝠) sounds exactly like the word for good fortune (fú, 福).\"Design on the bowl:Four seasons\": The engravings on the sides of the vessels represent traditional seasonal flora:Spring — Peonies: Visible on the jug next to the phoenix, symbolising beauty, prosperity, and femininity.Summer — Lotus: Featured prominently on the sugar bowl alongside a water pot and an inkstand.Fall — Chrysanthemum: Deeply detailed on the reverse side of the jug.Winter — Winter Plum: Engraved across the vessels, completing the seasonal cycle.Phoenix = queen\": The jug features a large, detailed phoenix (Fenghuang) flying amid the peonies, traditionally representing the Empress or high virtue.
Approximate Dimensions:Sugar Bowl (with lid):Height: = approx. 11 cm .Width (Handle to Handle) = approx. 15.5 cm Depth = approx. 10 cmMilk/creamer Jug: eight: = approx. 7.5cm. Width (Spout to Handle): 15.5 cm Depth = approx. 10 cm
Condition Report:The set is in very good antique condition, showing age-appropriate wear and historical character.
Structure: The handles, spout, lid, and bases are structurally sound with no major dents or warping. The red finial on the lid is securely attached and free of cracks.
Surface: Both pieces retain their original, highly desirable unpolished dark matte patina (skin / 皮壳). There are minor superficial scratches, light surface scuffs, and localized areas of oxidation/rust spotting on the underside rims consistent with a century of storage.
Note: As with all historic pewter of this era, this set is being sold strictly as a decorative antique and collector\'s piece and should not be used for serving food or beverages.
Provenance from Dr. Djang dated 1949:The provenance provides a beautifully preserved piece of Chinese export history with ironclad provenance. It is incredibly rare to find these antique sets with the exact handwritten guide explaining their motifs and the name of the scholar who gifted them.
Looking closely at the engraving on the pieces, you can see exactly what Dr. Djang was pointing out: The Sugar Basin (Lidded Pot): On the side facing forward, you can clearly see the large peonies growing out of a traditional Chinese vase, surrounded by a fine textured background. True to the first note, the four segments of the lid feature stylised bats radiating outwards around the red knob to bring \"Fu\" (good fortune).The Jug (Creamer Pitcher): The front features a large, beautifully rendered peony blossom, symbolising wealth, honour, and feminine beauty. Turning it around reveals a scholarly setting, featuring books, an incense burner, and vases depicting the scholar’s desk mentioned in the margins of the letter.
The note was written on stationery from \"Craigerne,\" a residence on Bristol Road in Birmingham, UK, and documents a gift from a Dr. Djang.Scholars like D.K. Djang and W.B. Djang are recorded in national UK academic and ecumenical archives interacting with British researchers during this precise decade. It is highly likely your Dr. Djang was either a visiting medical doctor, a university researcher, or an academic housed in university-affiliated lodging along the Bristol Road corridor.