One “abalone” novelty display piece. Item is previously owned and is in delicate, but fairly good condition.

This incredible piece dates back to the early 1900’s, from Shanghai China during the Chinese export silver era. This decoration piece appears to be custom in design, made from separate components, perhaps commissioned by the artist, Luen Wo.

The main focal point of this piece is a whole, solid mother of pearl shell. There are sever chips and scuffs around the edges of the shell, with some slight yellowing from age, but it has retained its defined “shell” shape and its beautiful pearlescent colours and lustre.

Mounted to the top part of the shell is an intricately designed dragon, crafted in sterling silver, and screwed through the shell. One of the washers for the screws is missing. Mounted to the underside of the shell is an equally intricately designed figurine, also crafted in sterling silver, that is very reminiscent to that of the traditional Chinese dragon head with what appears to be the body of a fish, as per the scales and fins.

The top piece that attaches to the shell is similar to that of a sun. The base, where the dragon’s head starts, has been carved with wave like designs to depict water.

Cascading from the etching, the remainder of the base is all done in high polished silver. Along the side of the base are two stamps; one features Chinese lettering, while the other is stamped “Luen Wo”.

On the inside of the lip of the base, there is an engraving in the Danish language that reads, “Til moder fra Jørgen 1904”. This sentence translates to, “To mother from Jørgen 1904”.

This piece has no other stampings, but it is guaranteed that this piece is 900/1000 parts sterling silver, as this was the standard for Chinese silver during this time period.

This piece stands at approximate 5-inches in height, while the widest diameter of the shell measures at 9 1/4 inches.

This piece does not come with a certificate of authenticity or appraisal.