Extremely fine silver charm chain which used to dangle from a long hairpin. Depicted are a boot and a shoe. Originally these objects were completely adorned by the bright blue feathers of the Kingfisher bird but most of these are gone. Shoes (xiezi) are a pun for ‘Together’ (xie). The shoe is decorated with a Butterfly (Blessings & Happiness) and Osmanthus flowers (Distinguished sons). At the bottom is a musical chime ‘Qing’ (Auspicious Happiness), a Chrysanthemum flower (Longevity) and two bells shapes as rudimentary Pomegranates (Many children). The charm chain dates from the end of the Qing Dynasty (1644 – 1912). Length 16 cm.