China Trade Eagle Plaque

Datec 1875

Object number00015901

NamePlaque

MediumWood

DimensionsOverall: 0.1 kg

ClassificationsCommemorative artefacts

Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds

Terms

DescriptionThis China Trade eagle plaque was manufactured in China during the late 19th century. Decorative eagle plaques were carved as souvernirs for Americans trading in China. This plaque hung in the Captain's cabin on board the GREAT ADMIRAL, an American ship active in the China trade.HistoryThis plaque belonged to James F Rowell, Captain of the Boston built medium clipper GREAT ADMIRAL. The GREAT ADMIRAL made several passages to Australia and was active in the China trade. It was built and launched in 1869 by William F. Weld & Co. of Boston and weighed 1,497 tonnes. She was owned by Weld & Co. for 28 years and during that time travelled 726,968 miles in 5,360 sailing days, sailing about 135.6 miles daily.SignificanceThese plaques are fine examples of Chinese souvenir carving in wood with designs created for an export market.