A Chinese Guan-Ware Lobed Vase

Dimensions: H: 7 3/4 in. W: 5 in. (20 cm x 13 cm)

The collection originate from Edward Hobart Seymour's uncle's family.

Source: From the collection of Edward Hobart Seymour.

Edward Hobart Seymour (1840-1929) was the grandson of Sir Michael Seymour. He studied at Radley College in Southsea and Eastman's Royal Naval Academy, joining the Royal Navy in 1852. He became a Royal Navy officer and the first overall commander of the Eight-Nation Alliance during the Boxer Rebellion.

In 1857, Seymour came to China, participating in the Second Opium War, but he returned to Britain due to health reasons. In 1860, he returned to China to suppress the Taiping Rebellion and visited its capital, Nanjing.

During the Boxer Rebellion in 1900, Seymour, stationed in Tientsin (Tianjin), ordered "appropriate and practicable measures" to protect British nationals in China. When the Boxers reached Beijing, Seymour initiated military action. In June 1900, the Eight-Nation Alliance formed, appointing Seymour as the commander-in-chief. His forces were blocked at Langfang. Later, he engaged in battles at Shanghai, Nanjing, Wuchang, Shanhaiguan, and Qinhuangdao. The command was later assumed by the German General Waldersee.

Seymour was promoted to Admiral in 1901 and returned to England in August of the same year. He visited China three times, receiving numerous art pieces as gifts from the Chinese government and acquiring artworks during the suppression of the Boxers. These artifacts were transported back to the UK with his fleet.

Admiral Seymour received the Order of the Bath and the Victoria Cross. He passed away on March 2, 1929, at the age of 88, unmarried and childless.

After retirement, Seymour organized his collection and affixed his signature to some items, also sealing them with his family crest. He sold and donated parts of his collection in his later years.