Old silver counterweight jewel, Miao or Dong, Hunan, China, Qing dynasty

  

Old counterweight for a breast apron or pectoral ornament. This S-shaped piece is worn at the back of the body to balance and distribute the weight of the ornaments. It is made of a flattened central sinuous rod, hammered in the middle and wound into conical spirals on each side.

This type of tribal craftsmanship is very delicate to make. Its symbolism is linked to femininity and fertility, and it is traditionally called the mirror of Yin and Yang. The metal is solid but low-grade, often called “Miao silver,” mainly because under tension pure silver, being too malleable, would deform. Finally, its large size makes it not only a beautiful ethnic collector’s piece but also an interesting visual work of art to display on a base. Dimensions: 17 cm x 12 cm, weight: 271 g.