Silver-plated copper needle case in the shape of a fish. Fishes symbolize Abundance in China. The fish is hanging from a gourd which symbolizes Blessings and Fertility. Three bells decorated with Plum flowers dangle from the ensemble. The five petals of a Plum blossom symbolize the Five Blessings, Old age, Health, Wealth, Love of Virtue and a Peaceful death. The needle case dates from the late Qing (1644 – 1912) to the early Republic period (1912 – 1947). Total length 29.cm. Fish length 6.5 cm. Width 2.8 cm. Depth 1.5 cm.