Watch List notes:

Qing Dynasty, An Imperial 'Tian-Tsui' Chaplet, cir. late Qing dynasty, The mandate system of the Ming and Qing Dynasties were mature and well developed. Government officials were divided into nine ranks and the wives of these officials adorned special chaplet accessories as a reflection of their status. The higher the government rank of the husband, the chaplet would bear more intricate, decorative and lavish designs.

This chaplet embodies the traditional Chinese techniques in the craftsmanship of accessories 'Filigree Inlay' and 'Tian-tsui'("dotting with kingfishers"). The process begins with creating the base using gold or an alloy of gold. Next, the feathers are attached one by one onto the metal base and are then trimmed as fit according to the design. This involves a multitude of procedures from planning and designing to the fine craftsmanship required to attach and refine the decorations. This particular type of 'Tian-tsui' chaplet involves the usage of jewellery with bright blue and sapphire colours to be put together with bird feathers in a detailed and interwoven manner, evoking a sense of silk-like fineness that shines with a soft hues of blue or violet blue colours. The 'Tian-tsui' method of making accessories enables the brilliance of the colours used to be highlighted, while also being much less prone to discolouration with the passage of time.

This chaplet is 30cm(Width) x 28cm(Depth) x 26cm(Height without tassel) /73cm(Height with tassel).

Estimate: $70,000.00 - $120,000.00