3. A Pair of Ruby, Gold and Pearl Hairpins
China; Ming Dynasty Wan Li
16th c.
Gold, Rubies and Pearls
Length: 15.8cm
A pair of rare hairpins made from filigree gold and inset with tumbled rubies.The central motif is a large toad catching an insect.The antenna of the insect made from sprung gold and pearls. The frogs are set amongst foliage of rubies and seed pearls.