Cumshing Canton Chinese Export Silver Mark
Cumshing Canton Chinese Export Silver Mark is a sterling silver hallmark, produced 1785–1825, identified by the mark CS with English style pseudo-hallmarks.
| Maker | Cumshing |
|---|---|
| Mark | Cumshing Canton Chinese Export Silver Mark |
| Identifying Characteristics | CS with English style pseudo-hallmarks |
| Period | 1785–1825 |
| Region | Rest of World |
| Type | Maker's mark |
What does the “CS with English style pseudo-hallmarks” mark mean?
Cumshing was among the earliest Canton silversmiths to work for Western buyers. Forbes, Kernan and Wilkins place his shop on New China Street in Canton from about 1785 to 1825 and rank him among the best early export makers. If your piece is stamped CS with a row of small marks copying English hallmarks, such as a lion, a crowned head or a date letter, you may have Cumshing work. His pieces copy English and American Neoclassical shapes closely, so they are easy to mistake for Georgian or Federal silver. Some dealers attribute later CS pieces to the same name, so check the style.
What is Cumshing sterling silver worth?
SebastianCharles Auctions catalogues and sells Cumshing sterling silver at auction from our gallery at 5263 Edina Industrial Blvd, Edina, Minnesota. Value depends on the individual piece and its condition. Send photographs of the mark and the piece for a free auction estimate, or call (612) 280-1377. Formal written appraisals are billed hourly from $150, with most reports delivered within two weeks.