Wooden shuttle used in conjunction with a small loom to weave ribbons. The ribbons adorned lotus shoes, purses etc. The shuttle which has been smoothly polished by regular use, still has its original metal wire on which a bobbin was attached. It dates from the late Qing period (1644 – 1912) to the early Republic period (1912 – 1947). Length 17.2 cm. Width 5.1 cm. Thickness 2.3 cm.