Description:

**Originally Listed At $250**

East Asia, China, Late Qing Dynasty to Republic era, ca. 19th to 20th century CE. A set of four silver and gilt-silver charms designed to be attached to a child's hat for protection. These charms include four figures that may represent guardian spirits or auspicious symbols. In the past high child mortality rates were often attributed to malevolent spirits. To safeguard young children, they were dressed in silk and embroidered hats adorned with silver ornaments, bells, appliques, and protective figures such as these. These charms were believed to ward off evil and promote longevity and prosperity. While children in China still wear auspicious hats today, the practice has largely diminished, persisting mainly in rural areas. Size of largest: 1.75" L x 0.75" W (4.4 cm x 1.9 cm); silver quality: 42.9% to 96%; gold quality: 32.5%

Provenance: private Thousand Oaks, California, USA collection, acquired 1970s to 2000s

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

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#193173

  • Condition: Indentations and rubbing to surfaces. Patina and dark toning. Loss to feet on the smallest charm.

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Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

February 8, 2026 10:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000