Details
Description
A distinctive vintage Chinese longevity-lock amulet, or *changming suo*, presented beneath glass as sculptural wall art. An open-link chain supports …
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A distinctive vintage Chinese longevity-lock amulet, or *changming suo*, presented beneath glass as sculptural wall art. An open-link chain supports a relief-decorated lock-form pendant, finished with finely incised leaf-shaped ornaments and three elongated folded-metal drops.
Traditionally associated with wishes for a child’s protection, health and long life, longevity locks carry rich cultural symbolism. The central decoration appears to depict stylized bats and a fruiting peach branch—auspicious motifs associated with blessings and longevity.
Mounted against an oatmeal woven-textile ground with an ivory mat and dark wood frame, the intricate metalwork creates a striking contrast with its restrained presentation. Its narrow proportions suit a space beside a doorway, above a small chest or within a collected gallery wall.
Estimated early to mid-20th century, with later framing. Maker and precise date unknown; the untested metal is described conservatively as metal alloy.
A thoughtful addition to chinoiserie, traditional or grandmillennial interiors, pairing beautifully with Chinese porcelain, lacquerware and framed textiles.
Dimensions: 12″ W × 1.75″ D × 20″ H, including frame.
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- Dimensions
- 12ʺW × 1.75ʺD × 20ʺH
- Period
- Mid 20th Century
- Country of Origin
- China
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Art Glass
- Metal
- Wood
- Condition
- Good Condition, Unknown, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Brass
- Condition Notes
- Good vintage condition with visible age and wear. The mounted longevity-lock amulet remains visually complete, and its raised decoration, open-link … moreGood vintage condition with visible age and wear. The mounted longevity-lock amulet remains visually complete, and its raised decoration, open-link chain, leaf-shaped pendants and folded tubular drops retain strong decorative presence. The metal components display extensive darkening, oxidation, tarnish, rubbing, scratches and irregular surface variation. The folded tubular drops show visible seams, small perforations, edge wear and localized bending. Some chain links appear irregular or partially open, consistent with age and hand assembly. The oatmeal woven-textile ground shows generalized toning, discoloration, spotting and surface variation. The broad ivory mat displays scattered speckling, small dark marks, faint surface soiling and minor edge wear. A small tuft or remnant of fibrous mounting material is visible along the lower inner edge near the frame. The dark brown-black painted wood frame exhibits considerable age-appropriate wear. This includes numerous scratches, abrasions, rubbed edges, scattered small chips and several larger areas of finish loss exposing pale gesso or underlying material. The most prominent losses occur along the upper rail, upper corners, side rails and lower inner edge. The frame’s corner joints appear intact, and the framing glass remains intact. The reverse retains a mottled paper-covered backing board with age-related discoloration, scuffs, shallow impressions, small punctures and surface irregularities. Two metal hanging brackets are attached near the upper corners. No hanging wire is included. The amulet has not been removed from its framed presentation. Consequently, its reverse, concealed chain sections, exact mounting method and areas beneath the textile and mat have not been examined. Please review all photographs closely, particularly the metal surfaces, chain links, suspended elements, textile mount, mat, frame edges, finish losses, corners and reverse. less
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