Chinese Silver Carnelian Needle Case with Daoist Figure Pendant 19th Century

A hand worked low grade silver canister for holding sewing or darning needles. The case is pierced and has fish and lobster motifs.

There are two carnelian beads; one of which is used to open the case. The other bead tops a pendant of Daoist figure that hangs off a hook used to attach the case to a chatelaine. The figure is gilded in gold, although much of the gilding has worn off. The case and figure have small dangling pieces of stamped metal formed to resemble blossoms. The case works. The chains and cylinder move in and out.

There are no marks or labels. The needle case was not intended for export.

Needle case – 2 3/8” (5.9 cm) long x 7/8” (2.2 cm) wide.

Pendant 2 1/8” (5.4 cm) long. 10” (25.4 cm) long overall.

Weighs 1.4 oz (40 g)

There are no breaks, dents, or cracks. The metal has oxidized and is dark, except on raised areas, such as the figure’s nose, where it has rubbed against cloth. The figure has remnants of gold gilding, especially on the back. The large bead has some wear at the top where it attaches.

A work of art and a utilitarian object. Much work went into the manufacture of this needle case. This piece is great for a collection or a dangly bit from a piece of furniture.