Kun He

(Active between 1880 – 1925)

Kun He was a prominent and highly prolific Chinese silversmith, working in Shanghai between 1880 and 1925. Due to the fact that his name has an alternative spelling, preferred in some dialects – Kwan Wo, the artisan can be mistakenly confused with another renowned Chinese manufacturer, Kwan Wo, that was located in Canton and Hong Kong. However, according to A. Von Ferscht, there was no connection between the two skillful craftsmen (see A. Von Ferscht, Chinese Export Silver 1785-1940, 4th edition 2015).

The gifted silversmith’s signature style is quite recognizable, he had an incredible ability to combine theatrical Victorian motifs with traditional Chinese ornaments. This splendid union of styles is inherent in the items Kun He crafted in the late 19th century.

Not only did the talented artisan elaborate Victorian and Chinese motifs in his works, but also executed absolutely stunning pieces in the spirit of “arts & crafts” movement that was so popular among British and American customers. Describing the genius of Kun He, A. Von Ferscht compared his works to a Breughel painting: «the more one looks at it, the more one discovers new focuses of sheer brilliance».

Most items produced by Kun He carry the hallmarks of both the artisan and the retailer. The manufacturer’s mark can be found on fine silver pieces, retailed by Hung Chong, Luen Wo and Tuck Chang. However, not all the pieces by the talented artisan were traded via retailers.