The silver filigree work of China represents one of the country’s most intricate artforms. Using silver wire as fine as the human hair, the thread is corded, looped and woven into delicate lace-like patterns. Flower, bird and landscape patterns are common themes in filigree work, symbolizing ideas such as peace, beauty and prosperity. Unlike filigree from other countries such as Madrid, Ethiopia, or Italy where filigree work is primarily found in jewelry, Chinese filigree patterns are often incorporated into ornamental pieces such as plates, bowls and vases.

This filigree plate is exquisitely made featuring the iconic Tiantan - Temple of Heaven - one of Beijing China’s most famed architectural structures.

About the Artist

The artist of the silver filigree plate is a Beijing native, Tan Yee Hwa. A senior artist, Mr. Tan is well known and respected for his silverwork across Asia, including Japan, China, Taiwan and Singapore. Indeed, his reputation is well deserved, having dedicated all of his life to the art of pulling and weaving silver. The artist is now in his late sixties and noted for his unique designs. Although his works are displayed across the Asian continent, and in Hong Kong and Japan in private and museum collections, they are no longer widely available to the general public.