Hat-Ornament

Date1644-1912

MediumGlass, metal alloy, card

DimensionsObject/Work: 70 x 35 mm

ClassificationsCostume

Terms

Object numberC02414

DescriptionSpherical transparent glass ball on a supporting ornamental mount of gilt metal decorated with feathered or clawed motifs and layers of paper underneath. This would have been mounted on top of a Mandarin's hat. There were nine different classes and the colour of the button indicated a Mandarin's rank. A transparent white button such as this was worn by those of the fifth class.

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