Antique Qing Dynasty Chinese Repousse Silver Hanging Bottle Gourd Amulet - Rita Okrent Collection (P606g)

A traditional silver repousse silver bottle gourd talisman, from China, with a hanging carnelian bead, on a silver chain. Beautifully detailed silversmith work.

Circa Qing Dynasty (pre-1911).

Could be used as a focal amulet or as a key chain or other decoration. 

As seen on page 85 in Margaret Duda's fabulous reference text, "Four Centuries of Silver". According to Duda, "As a talisman or to secure fertility, wealth, longevity and healing, a miniature silver bottle gourd was either attached to a chain, hung in the center of a grooming kit or worn as a toggle to counterbalance items suspended from the sash." 

Size: 3.8 inches /10 cm long including chain. Gourd is 1.5 inches / 4 cm tall. Weight with chain: 18.6 grams.

Pendant Item 606g