A gilt bronze belt hook holds a light greenish carving of a boy holding a lotus flower in his hands. The theme of a crouching boy holding a lotus flower is typical of the Ming period (1368 - 1644) to which this belt hook belongs. This symbolizes a wish to have 'Many sons' and 'Continuous Harmony'. The backside of the belt hook is finely engraved with scrolling lotus flowers. It was acquired from the 'Chinese Art & Crafts' shop in Wanchai, Hong Kong, in 1990 where at that time genuine antiques were still to be found. Length 7.2 cm. Width 4.6 cm. Depth 1.8 cm. Weight 124.0 grams.