An extensive Chinese silver-gilt tea service, Qing Dynasty, 18th/ 19th century

the chased bodies applied with a filigree decoration of scrolling and floral motifs, comprising: rectangular casket with three caddies, teapot on stand, oval box with cover on stand, two bowls with cover and stand in different shapes and sizes, sugar bowl with a hinged handle, pair of sugar tongs, twelve bowls with cover on stand, twelve tea cups, twelve tea spoons (90)

Generally in fairly good condition considering its age. However various damages to the filigree, especially the tea cups with handles. In various places the filigree is loose from the plain rims. One cup missing the handle, the others with damages. The silver standard is below 800 which is below Dutch legal alloy. However, due to the fact that this service was made for export this makes sense. For the national market higher standards of silver were used. For further information, please contact the department.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Oriental filigree silver objects appear to have been desirable items at the European courts during the 17th and 18th century. Although it is not clear who first obtained this tea service at the Dutch court and where and by whom it was made, it probably originates in China, 18th century, based on stylistic features. Catherine the Great, with her magnificent filigree toilet service, Louis XIV with his vast collection, and in the Netherlands Amalia van Solms at the court in The Hague, among others, set the example of collecting delicate filigree silver objects in the 17th century. This tea service might have been brought to Holland by one of the Princesses of Orange, for example Anna Paulowna, though no evidence has been found so far.
See: Exh.cat. Silver; Wonders from the East, Filigree of the Tsars, Zwolle, 2006, p. 65, 84-93.