Silver lock decorated on one side with a flower which is most probably a Peony (Wealth and Honor). On the other side of the lock are four Chinese characters which form the expression ‘Zuang Yuan Ji Di’ which means ‘Best result in the (Civil Service) Examinations’. The text is flanked by a Peach (Long life) and a Pomegranate (Many children) as well as a flower which we believe to be Cymbidium (Friendship and Grandsons). The lock dates from the late Qing (1644 – 1912) to the early Republic period (1912 – 1947). Width 6.2 cm. Height 4.1 cm. Depth 0.8 cm.