PROPERTY FROM THE NOBLE SILVER COLLECTION A PAIR OF SILVER BOWLS WITH PRUNUS TREE BLOSSOMS AND BIRDSBURMA (MYANMAR), SHAN STATE, CIRCA 1925 Each underside patterned with a large incised prunus tree. 10 in. (25.5 cm) high; 10 1/4 in. (26 cm) diameter; 51 troy oz (1,585 grams) approximate weight This pair of large, lidded bowls patterned with popular Chinese motifs of flowering prunus trees, birds, and rock work illuminates the broader tapestry of foreign stylistic influences—beyond the British—incorporated by Burmese silversmiths, who worked for the multi-ethnic peoples of Myanmar. Representing the largest ethnic minority in Myanmar, primarily living in the eastern Burmese Shan State, the Shan people are a Tai ethnic group whose ancestry is traced back to Yunnan and Sichuan provinces in modern-day Southwest China. The pointed finials on the lids of both vessels, which likely would have been produced for a Shan patron, is amon feature in Shan material culture. The inclusion of a hawk capturing a smaller bird in flight depicted on each vessel would also be considered a distinct local variation on the overall Chinese motif. The containers derive their shape from rice storage jars, although their clean interior condition suggests they served an ornamental or limited ceremonial function. Published: Owens, Burmese Silver Art , pp.95, 97 & 192, nos.S5 & S6, fig.3.93.