Antique Chinese silver fragrance box / perfumier in the form of a pierced vase . pdvs1007

Antique Chinese silver vase shaped perfume/fragrance box, decorated with etching and floral openwork with vines and flowers.  Two silver peaches dangle from chain from the bottom. Silver wire "handles" and a silver 's' hook at the top to attach to a chain or chatelaine.One side of the box lifts out so a fragrance soaked cotton or cloth can be inserted.  This type of ornament may have been part of a larger ritual or ceremonial piece during the dynasty period. 4 1/2 inches in length from top of hook to bottom dangle. Vase is 2  x 1 x 5/16 inches.  1 1/4 inch chain connects two 5/8 x 5/8 x 5/16 inch peach charms. Front and back have similar pierced floral themes.

This is an antique piece from the dynasty that fell in 1911. In the 1970s to the mid 1980s, Chinese workers added beads, cords and chains to these Qing Dynasty artifacts. For the most part the beads and knots attached to this amulet were added during this period. This piece came from the estate of a dealer who acquired many of these artifacts. They have become increasingly rare and today, some reproductions of much poorer quality are being produced.