Lot 39
A SACK OF PEKIN SOUVENIER FROM THE PALACE.
A battered metal Tea Canister with an original Chinese label, having an old label in English affixed. Reading 'Mr H C Thompson, 3 Park Square West, Regents Park. SW'. Being his period calling card with additional writing. 'Canister of Tea taken from the Dowager Empress of China's Palace at the Sack of Pekin 1900.'
The Dowager Empress Cixi fled the City dressed as a peasant woman, pulled in a hand cart. Looting was widespread, with each force blaming others in the combined assault force.
