One of the most charming silver items in the collection is this exquisitely shaped minute figure of a boy. It must have been a talisman which was perhaps worn in a small silk bag as it does not have any form of attachment. Depictions of boys usually symbolize a wish for many sons and the fact that he is holding a gold bar adds a wish for Wealth. The subject is very appropriate as a wedding present but it is difficult to imagine that anyone would give such a small thing to the newlyweds. The boy dates from the Qing period (1644 – 1912). Height 2.0 cm. Width 0.75 cm. Depth 0.5 cm.