19th Century Chinese Qing Travelling Eating Set Trousse Knife Chopsticks Brass Sheath

19TH CENTURY CHINESE QING DYNASTY TRAVELLING EATING SET / TROUSSE

An unusual and highly decorative Chinese travelling eating set, or trousse, dating from the late Qing dynasty, approximately c.1850–1900.

The complete set comprises a single-edged steel eating or utility knife, a pair of wooden chopsticks with metal-capped ends, and the original wood-cored sheath extensively mounted in decorated brass or copper alloy.

The sheath and handle mounts are worked in bold relief with scrolling foliage, stylised zoomorphic masks and geometric ornament, including a traditional key-fret style terminal border.

A distinctive cast zoomorphic fitting to the side carries the suspension loop, allowing the set to be worn from a sash or belt.

These portable knife-and-chopstick sets were widely used across Qing China and neighbouring cultural regions, particularly amongst Manchu, Mongol and Sino-Tibetan communities, where personal eating knives formed part of traditional dress and dining practice.

The steel blade is of simple single-edged form with wooden grip, metal bolster and decorated brass terminal. The original pair of wooden chopsticks remain with the set and fit within the sheath alongside the knife.

A very characterful and complete example of Qing-period travelling eating equipment, with particularly attractive aged brass decoration and strong ethnographic appeal.

Origin: China, possibly Sino-Tibetan region

Period: Late Qing Dynasty

Date: c.1850–1900

Suggested listing year: 1880

Materials: Steel, wood and brass/copper alloy

Length: approx. 25.5cm

Weight: approx. 127g

Contents: Knife, pair of chopsticks and fitted sheath

Condition:

Good antique condition overall with considerable age-related wear. The brass mounts show tarnishing, verdigris, dents and areas of lifting or deformation. The wood shows wear, colour variation and some splitting/separation. The steel blade has oxidation, surface pitting and staining. The chopsticks show age-related wear and variation in surface colour. The set remains complete with knife, both chopsticks and sheath.

The surfaces have been left unrestored and retain their historic patina.

Please examine all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description.

UK AGE-RESTRICTED SALE: This item contains a knife and may only be purchased by persons aged 18 or over. By purchasing this item, the buyer confirms that they are aged 18 or above. The parcel will be sent using an age-verification delivery service, and the courier may require valid photographic identification before handing over the item. Delivery will not be completed where satisfactory proof of age cannot be provided.

About CKB LTD.

CKB LTD. was formed in 2010 and operates as an independent dealer, with a focus on carefully selected works offered through private sale and online platforms.

The company emphasizes informed attribution, clear descriptions, and responsible market practice. Objects are evaluated through visual examination, comparative research, and reference to established art-historical frameworks, with attention to condition, authenticity, and context.

CKB LTD. works with private collectors, dealers, and international buyers, and conducts transactions in accordance with standard international art market conventions. Each item is offered as a collectible work of art, with transparency regarding condition and attribution, and with respect for the nature of historical objects.

Condition, Attribution & Authenticity Notice

This work is offered as an antique object based on visual examination and comparative stylistic analysis. All statements regarding age, origin, attribution, and period represent informed scholarly opinion and are not guarantees of absolute fact.

Condition descriptions are based on external observation only. The interior, underside of the base, and any internal cavities or consecration materials have not been examined. No technical analysis (including XRF, thermoluminescence, or metallurgical testing) has been performed.

As is typical with antique bronzes, minor casting irregularities, surface wear, rubbing to high points, oxidation, and age-related imperfections are present and should be expected. No visible repairs or restorations are observed from the available views; however, the absence of hidden restorations cannot be guaranteed.

All items are sold as is, and prospective buyers are encouraged to examine the photographs carefully and request additional information prior to purchase. By bidding or purchasing, the buyer acknowledges acceptance of the item?s condition and the nature of antique works.

International Buyers ? Important Information

This item is an antique work of art over 100 years old and is sold as a collectible object. Buyers are responsible for any import duties, VAT, GST, customs fees, or local taxes imposed by their country.

The seller does not provide CITES documentation, export permits, or cultural property certificates unless explicitly stated. Please verify import requirements with your local customs authority prior to purchase.

All shipments are professionally packed and fully insured. Title and risk pass to the buyer upon shipment.

This work is offered in accordance with standard international art market practices.