Unusual Antique Chinese export Sterling Silver and Enamel Filigree finger guard brooch with Turquoise & Coral cabochons. The piece is converted from a 19th century fingernail guard so it can be worn as a decorative brooch. Features intricate Filigree metalwork, vibrant Enamel colors, and beautiful floral motifs.
A timeless piece that echoes the sophistication of Chinese royalty.
The humble origins of nail guards began in Han dynasty (202 BC – 220 AD), more than a millennium prior to their mainstream glory. At that time, they weren’t particularly decorative. It wasn’t until Qing dynasty (1644-1912) that they became as delicate and flamboyant as people today have known them to be.
Nail guards had very diverse looks. They could be made of gold, silver, bronze, jade, gilded metal, vitreous enamel, hawksbill sea turtle shells, or cloisonné and usually inlayed with gemstones, glass, and kingfisher feather. Sometimes, they sported a hollow out design. The hollow out nail guards were for summer as they gave the royal fingers a chance to breath.
Similar ones selling online for between R2000 and R6000.
Measurements :Total length of 7cm x 1.9cm wide.Each of the Round Coral and Turquoise Cabochons measure 5.30mm in diameter.Total weight of 13grams.
