Charming antique mustard pot dating to around 1900 and possibly originating from Canton. The bottom of the pot stamped with the maker’s mark which cannot be identified and unusually, does not carry export marks which means it may have been purchased in-country rather than being produced as a tourist piece and shipped overseas. Mustard has been grown in China for thousands of years, so this may have been produced for domestic use.

The pot is round and sits on three silver globe feet. There is a hinged lid, (in good working order,) which is lightly etched with a six-petalled flower with a central simple triangular finial and there’s a slim notch to for a spoon. The body of the pot is encircled with a hand-crafted, low-relief design of branches of blossom, with two birds sitting on the branch at the central point of the pot. It is possible these are meant to represent magpie which are common in China and regarded as a messenger of good luck. Pairs are meant to signify love, bliss, and happiness in a romantic partnership.

This pot measures 18cms in diameter and is 8cms in depth from finial to foot. It weighs in at a hefty 44.9g. The exterior is in good condition; the interior has signs of age and use.

This is a sweet and highly decorative little pot which would be a lovely addition to a silver collection.