Extremely rare Victorian Chinese sterling silver rowing trophy prize from the the Hong Kong Regatta held in 1887. The trophy predates the formation of the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club in 1884 so the regatta would have been organised by either the Victoria Regatta Club or the Hong Kong Boat Club.
The elegant silver trophy cup is supported by three figural silver oars tied in the middle with silver rope. The bowl is beautifully engraved with flowers & birds. The engraved presentation inscription reads:
"Hong Kong Regatta 1887 "Members Cup" A. Duer, R.T. Wright, J.D. Saunders, F.H. Shepherd (Stroke)"
The trophy comes complete with an ebonised wooden plinth but this is not original to the silver trophy.
Sterling Silver Trophy: Weight: 219.9 gm. Height: 185 mm. Diameter of rim: 80 mm. Diameter of base: 70 mm. Base stamped "STERLING" for sterling silver.
Ebonised Wooden Plinth: Weight: 256.8 gm. Height: 55 mm. Diameter of base: 115 mm.
Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club: In 1849 the Victoria Regatta Club was formed and later absorbed the Hong Kong Boating Club which, in 1889 (2 years after the trophy for sale was won), merged into the Hong Kong Corinthian Sailing Club. In 1894 the club became known as the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club and thrives to this day.
Regattas and other races were held sporadically by the Victoria Regatta Club from 1849 up to 1890 so it seems likely the Hong Kong Regatta of 1887 was organised by the Victoria Regatta Club or alternatively it could have been organised by the Hong Kong Boating Club.
Summary: Hong Kong Regatta trophies which predate the formation of the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club are extremely rare & collectable and this is a superb example. Good luck!