Large silk embroidered collar for a lady. Depicted are many auspicious symbols such as Plum blossoms of which the five petals represent the Five Blessings, Longevity, Wealth, Health, Love of virtue and a Peaceful Death, Peonies (Wealth and Honor), Cymbidium flowers (Friendship and Grandsons), Chrysanthemums (Longevity), Osmanthus flowers (Distinguished sons), Rohdea Japonica with its red berries (Happiness and descendants), Lotus flowers (Continuous Harmony), Coins (Wealth), A boy and a reed flute (Give birth to successful sons), two fish (Abundance), a musical chime called ‘Qing’ (Celebrations), a carp swimming to the mythical dragon gate (See Quick Find 8636), a cat and a butterfly (Old age) and a Peony and a Butterfly (Blessings and Joy). The collar is of exceptional quality and dates from the end of the Qing period (1644 – 1912). Diameter 53 cm.