Antique Chinese Export Silver Snuff Box Signed MK (4746)

Antique, silver snuff box. Chinese export Silver. Made 19th century by MK, Canton, China 1850-1900. 

Measures approx 2 inches (50mm) long and 1 1/4 inches (30mm) wide. Weighs 46.2 grams. 

Rectangular box with hinged lid and thumbpiece in front. Unusually decorated both top and bottom. The top of the lid has a rectangular reserve, intended for the owner's initials, but still vacant. It is surrounded by beautifully chased peonies / chrysanthemums on a stippled, textured ground. The bottom is similarly chased with flowers and foliage. 

The inside of the box is gilded. The inner lid is marked with an 88 or bb, maker's mark MK and a Chinese chop mark. The mark MK was used by a maker in Canton during the 2nd half of the 19th century. 

Very good condition. 

A napkin ring, page 38 of the book on Chinese Export Silver, the Chan Collection, has very similar decoration to this box and is dated circa 1870.