This fine antique Peranakan silver bekas sirih/sirih* silver leaf holder has a tapering panelled fan shaped form.
The two side panels to the anterior portion of the body are embellished with impressive pierced, embossed and chased decoration depicting fish designs amidst geometric ornamented borders.
The central panel is ornamented with a subdivided Chinese dragon design below a floral and foliate array.
The posterior surface is embellished with further pierced, embossed and chased decoration depicting impressive undulating fruiting vine ornamentation.
The lower portion of each section bears an embossed Chinese character on a chased decorated matt background.
The plain concaved underside of this fine leaf holder is ornamented with a star motif amidst the character mark hallmarks.
* Sirih (or betel) was considered a symbol of hospitality in Malay culture and presented in decorative holders.
ConditionThis antique silver leaf holder is a very good gauge of silver, fine quality and in excellent presentation condition.
The embossed, chased and pierced decoration is all very sharp.
The hallmarks struck to the surface of the underside are all very clear.
Reflections in photographs may detract from the true representation of this piece of antique Asian silverware.
DimensionsLength of anterior 7.3cm/2.9"
Length of posterior 11.5cm/4.5"
Width 8.4cm/3.3"
Width of base 2.7cm/1.1"
Height 2.8cm/1.1"
Weight1.9 troy ounces/59.1g
Date: Circa 1900
Origin: China
Maker: Unknown
