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Sep 252 min read

The splendour and beauty of Chinese goldsmithing

Chinese goldsmithing, an ancestral art deeply rooted in the country's culture and history, has survived the centuries by demonstrating exceptional technical mastery and boundless creativity. From the Han dynasty to the present day, gold has always held a privileged place, symbolising wealth, power and immortality.



Gold and coral brooch, China, 20th century, appraised by Gauchet Art Asiatique for Millon auction house, sold for €2200

Gold, associated with the sun and fire, was considered a divine metal, the bearer of light and warmth. It was closely linked to notions of power, wealth and immortality. In traditional Chinese medicine, gold was used for its therapeutic virtues, notably to strengthen the heart and purify the blood. The colour gold, associated with the earth, was considered the colour of the emperor and symbolised nobility and royalty.


Chinese goldsmiths mastered a range of techniques that enabled them to create objects of great finesse and variety. These included casting, hammering, repoussé, chasing, setting, filigree, granulation, cloisonné and champlevé. These techniques, often combined, enabled them to bring complex and delicate motifs to life.


Belt hook, bronze inlaid with gold, silver and jade (nephrite), China, 4th century BC, held at the MET

The first pieces of silverware date from the period of the Warring Kingdoms (475-221 BC). Craftsmen of the time were already creating objects of great finesse, adorned with complex motifs and delicate engravings. Over the centuries, Chinese silversmithing evolved in line with the aesthetic trends of each dynasty, enriching itself with new techniques and materials.


The Han dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD) was marked by abundant production of gold objects, particularly funerary ornaments designed to accompany the deceased on their journey to the afterlife. Under the Tang (618-907), goldsmithing reached a peak of refinement, with pieces featuring voluptuous shapes and floral decorations.


The Ming dynasty (1368-1644) is considered the golden age of Chinese goldsmithing. The craftsmen of this period created jewellery of great delicacy, adorned with precious stones and pearls. The ‘Ming Gold’ exhibition at the Musée Guimet is a magnificent testimony to this.



Ornaments in the shape of a bat surmounted by the shou character, Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), openwork gold filigree set with rubies and sapphires, Xi'an, Qujiang Museum of Fine Arts


The Qing dynasty synthesised past traditions and foreign influences. Chinese goldsmithing did not evolve in complete isolation. Trade with neighbouring countries, notably India and Persia, introduced new motifs and techniques. From the 16th century onwards, contacts with Europeans also brought their share of influences.


Chinese goldsmiths drew their inspiration from mythology, nature and everyday life. Dragons, imperial symbols; phoenixes, the embodiment of rebirth; clouds, bearers of good fortune; flowers, symbols of beauty; and animals, often stylised, are all recurring motifs in Chinese goldsmithing.


Yellow gold and jadeite bracelet, South China, 20th century, appraised by Gauchet Art Asiatique for the Millon auction house, estimated between €2000 and €3000


Gauchet Art Asiatique, a specialist in Asian art for over 20 years, offers an accurate and reliable appraisal of your silver and gold pieces. Our team of experts, led by Jean Gauchet, is highly qualified to examine and analyse the unique characteristics of each piece, including its style, material, provenance and state of conservation.


Whether you are a passionate collector or simply the owner of a family heirloom, Gauchet Art Asiatique is your trusted partner for the appraisal of your objects. Contact us today for a free estimate.





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