Pair of Antique Chinese Export Silver Dragon Shot Glasses by Sheng Yuan, c. 1900

A distinctive pair of antique Chinese Export Silver liquor cups by Sheng Yuan, dating to the early 20th century. Each small cup is decorated with a detailed Chinese dragon and sun motif, creating a strong and characterful design associated with traditional Chinese decorative symbolism.

Compact and well matched, the cups would make an appealing addition to a collection of Chinese Export Silver, antique Asian silverware or decorative barware. Their small scale and finely worked dragon decoration make them particularly suitable for display.

Details

Item: Pair of antique Chinese Export Silver liquor cups / shot glasses
Maker / Mark: Sheng Yuan
Origin: China
Date / Period: Early 20th century, c. 1900
Material: Chinese Export Silver
Mark: Sheng Yuan mark
Decoration: Chinese dragon and sun motifs
Height: 5 cm each
Diameter: 3.5 cm each
Combined Weight: 52.1 g

Condition

Good antique condition overall, with surface wear and patina consistent with age and careful use. Please review the photographs closely, as they form part of the description.

Historical and Collector Context

Chinese Export Silver was produced for international markets from the late 18th century onwards. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, decorative motifs such as dragons, phoenixes and bamboo became increasingly prominent, giving these pieces a distinctive Chinese character.

Sheng Yuan is a documented name associated with Chinese Export Silver. This matching pair is particularly appealing for its compact form, dragon decoration and connection to the early 20th-century export silver tradition.

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description. We are happy to provide further details or images on request.