Three part pewter container comprising footed base with lid and inner bowl. All pieces signed. Lid and sides inscribed in various scripts with wishes for good luck and prosperity, as well as capacity mark and reference to Han dynasty. Lions-head ring handles. Extensive provenance: In the early 20th century the bowl was presented from a missionary based in Canton China to Dr. J. H. Selby of Walter Reed Hospital. In 1919 Army Surgeon General W. C. Gorgas requested the item be studied by a committee of archaeologists from John Hopkins University and the Smithsonian Institution, which declared it to be late Han or early Song dynasty. However it may be a Qing Dynasty copy of an earlier piece.
Approx. 7" diameter, approx. 5 1/2" total height.