Silver Miao necklace, SW China

Antique Chinese silver necklace, which is, in fact, a grooming kit. It was probably used by the Miao tribes living in Yunnan in South China. From the Qing Dynasty period.

The central piece depicts two dragons chasing the pearl of potentiality -denoting thunder and fertility- on a bat shape pendant – brings happiness and good fortune. From this pendant hang seven sets of tools (ear pick and sword). Even numbers were considered inauspicious and female in the Qing dynasty, so it’s difficult to see a grooming kit with 2, 4 or 6 tools.

Together with the grooming tools hang some fish pendants symbolizing the abundance of joy. The presence of swords indicates that the necklace was used by men.

The pendant measure 9 cm wide (3,54 in) and 16 cm high with the chains and tools (6,3 in). It hangs from a chain of 68 cm long (26,77 in)

Weight: 85 gr.

Bibliography: “Four centuries of silver” Duda, Margaret

SEA345

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