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Vintage Chinese Mother-of-Pearl Rabbit Toggle

Offered by: PAGODA RED

Description
This petite mother-of-pearl carving is a delightful example of the button-like toggles worn by men and women throughout the Qing dynasty. Because traditional Chinese clothing didn't have pockets, one's belongings were carried around in a pouch secured to their belt. Similar to Japanese netsuke, small charms such as this served as counterweights and occasionally were elaborately carved as fashionable accessories.

Shimmering with silvery, iridescent color, this contemporary interpretation is carved in relief from a single piece of mother-of-pearl and depicts a rabbit crouching in a bed of cabbages. The fourth animal in the Chinese zodiac, the rabbit is a symbol of luck, cleverness, and personal advancement. A mother-of-pearl pin runs through the center of the toggle, tied with cord to demonstrate its use.

More Information

Origin:	China
Period:	1950-1979
Materials:	Hand-carved mother of pearl
Condition:	Good.
Styles / Movements:	Chinese Export, Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Animal/Insects, Asian/Oriental
Dealer Reference #:	AHF0009D
Incollect Reference #:	802199

Dimensions

W.	2.5 in;	H.	2 in;	D.	0.5 in;
W.	6.35 cm;	H.	5.08 cm;	D.	1.27 cm;

Message from Seller:

PAGODA RED is a Chicago-based gallery celebrating extraordinary objects, handmade artistry, and the rich stories they carry from around the world. For inquiries or appointments, please call 773.235.1188 or email us at info@pagodared.com.

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