THE DIPLOMA OF THE DOUBLE DRAGON: AN IMPERIAL CHINESE LETTER AND CERTIFICATE CONFERRED ON CAPT. J.W.Y. STEWART, MASTER OF THE S.S. HAILOONG FOR TRANSFERRING TROOPS TO FIGHT IN THE FIRST SINO-JAPANESE WAR, 1894-1895

comprising the diploma, 1st Grade of the 3rd Class, conferred 23rd December 1894 by the Emperor of China; and letter to the Director of the China Steamship Navigation Company in Mandarin from the Emperor commending Captain Stewart for taking troops to the Tahing River to fight the Japanese in October 1894, with official stamps in red ink and associated wrappers, each framed and mounted within glazed framed with cartouche titles, the largest -- 23 x 54in. (58.5 x 137cm.) inc. frame

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The Honourable Company of Master Mariners; Presented by M. Mackay in 1998.

Japan, emboldened by a rapid programme of modernisation and industrialisation based on western lines, aggressively sought to exploit correctly perceived weaknesses of her vast neighbour, China. The main aim was to secure Korea, a country that could pose a threat if occupied by a major world power, such as Russia. The country was a Chinese tributary state at the time, but by the Treaty of Ganghwa, forced upon the Koreans in 1876, the Japanese gained influence within the country. The opportunity to take over the peninsula came in 1894 with the Donghak Rebellion, a peasant uprising. Both Japan and China sent troops to quell the disturbance and fighting soon broke out between the two sides. The Chinese had a large army and navy, but they proved no match for the well-trained and well-equipped Japanese forces. They overran Korea following their victory at the Battle of Pyongyang and then, invading Manchuria, overwhelmed the Chinese at the decisive Battle of Weihaiwei. Meanwhile, at sea the Chinese navy was virtually destroyed at the Battle of the Yalu River. In February 1895 the Chinese, completely outclassed, sued for peace.

Condition Report

Uninspected out of frames but all seem to be in excellent condition. There is a consistent mis-spelling of the ship's name to 'Hailing', possibly a translation error.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.