Qing Dynasty Cinnabar & Filigree Dress Clip from China

• Qing Dynasty - The Qing Dynasty was the last imperial dynasty of China, ruling from 1644 to 1912. It was established by the Manchu people, who originated from the northeastern region of China. The Qing Dynasty was preceded by the Ming Dynasty and followed by the Republic of China.
• Cinnabar - Cinnabar is an intense deep red colouring agent that has been in use for thousands of years, derived from crystalised red mercuric suphide. It is made into a coating by grinding ore into a fine powder then mixing the powder with lacquer made from the sap of the Rhus tree, which grows in East Asia.
  
  As applied to Oriental antiques, cinnabar refers to successive layers of laquer applied to the metal base of an object. Once the coating has dried and hardened, a further layer is applied. The layers continue to be applied until the thickness is 3 to 6 mm, and this may take up to 200 to 300 coats. At this stage, the surface is ready for the carving, that is characteristic of cinnabar items.
  
  Because of the labour required, cinnabar items are usually small, such as vases, boxes, trays and snuff bottles.
  
  However buyers should be aware that the cinnabar technique has been copied using modern plastic type materials that are moulded rather than carved. A close examination of a genuine cinnabar item under a strong magnifying glass or jewellers loupe should show evidence of the many layers that make up its thickness, and possibly tool marks left by the carver.
• Filigree Work - Jewels - Filigree is delicate and intricate ornamental metal-work made from thin threads of gold or silver, soldered and twisted together to give the effect of lace. The filigree work may be freestanding, or attached to the surface of an object.

This item has been included into following indexes:

• brooches, set with - filigree decoration 133
• dress clips and fur clips - jewellery 57