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Silver Chinese Articulated Serpent Fish Hair Pin

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:50.00 USD Estimated At:200.00 - 400.00 USD
Silver Chinese Articulated Serpent Fish Hair Pin
For your consideration is this late 1800s, early 1900s silver Chinese articulated serpent fish hair pin. It is thought to be constructed of sterling or coin silver, but has not been tested. The hair pin shows a large pin adorned with leaves and floral designs along with colored beads of yellow, red and blue. The top shows a bird standing a top a large silver ball, while two other birds sit slightly lower and to the left and right of the top bird. Attached to a chain, is a large serpent fish that would dangle around once the hair pin was inserted. It is constructed in sections giving it a loose feel, mimicking how a fish moves its body to swim. Hanging off of two separate chains is another smaller fish and a sword or dagger on the other hanging chain. Both chains are adorned with a small bead. The hair pin shows no makers mark or artist signature. The piece shows good condition overall with wear present from its age and use over the years but no signs of obvious damage is noted. It exhibits a nice, light patina throughout the entirety of the hair pin. The piece measures 7 3/4" L x 2 1/4" W and weighs 42.9 grams.