Silver decorative ornament which could be attached to the belt with two hooks. Attached to the hooks is an embossed Fu dog also known as Buddhist Lion. Buddhist Lions symbolize Harmony, Blessings and Protection as well as High Rank. Under the Lion dangles a ‘Dragon Fish’. Dragon fishes are mythical creatures with a dragon’s head and a fish’s tail. They were thought to be fish that transformed into dragons as soon as they passed the ‘Dragon’s gate’, located at the source of a river with almost unsurpassable rapids which symbolized great efforts. A Dragon fish therefore represents a wish to be successful during the Civil Service Examinations and achieve a ‘High status’. Attached to the Dragon Fish are another miniature Dragon Fish and three fruits. There’s a Peach (Longevity), a Finger Citron (Blessings & Longevity) and another fruit which we have not been able to identify. The belt ornament dates from the late Qing (1644 – 1912) to the early Republic period (1912 – 1947). Total length 15.5 cm. Width Dragon Fish 4.4 cm.