Tack Ming – six cups in Chinese export silver, Hong Kong, ca. 1910–1940

Complete set of six matching drinking cups in Chinese export silver, made by Tack Ming in Hong Kong in the early 1900s.

The cups have a conical body on a tall stem and round foot. Each cup is decorated with a detailed dragon motif set against a textured background. The decoration varies between the cups, giving the set a distinctly handcrafted character.

Tack Ming was a silversmith and dealer in Hong Kong, known for silverware made for the international market. Items with Chinese motifs, particularly dragons, formed a central part of the production.

Details:

• Maker: Tack Ming
• Origin: Hong Kong
• Period: Estimated ca. 1910–1940
• Quantity: Six matching cups
• Material: Chinese export silver
• Height: Approx. 9.6 cm per cup
• Total weight: Approx. 456 grams
• Marks: All six are hallmarked identically on the underside of the foot
• Provenance: Not known

Condition:
Good antique condition with patina, surface scratches and age-related wear. No major dents, cracks or visible repairs were noted upon examination. Some minor variations and irregularities are to be expected on handmade work from the period.

Estimated market value: 13,000–18,000 NOK.

See all images for a closer assessment of marks, decoration and condition.