Heavy silver needle case of exceptional quality depicting a Boy (Many Sons) with a Lock around his neck. In the old days Chinese children would wear silver or jade locks around their necks which were meant to chain the child to the earth and make it difficult for evil sprits to abduct it. The needle case itself is completely engraved with amongst others a Plum flower (Five Blessings, see QF 8258)) and an Osmanthus flower (Distinguished sons). The chain is attached to the tubular needle holder inside and the hook which would fasten the needle case to the sash of its owner comes in the shape of a Boy on a Qilin. A boy riding a Qilin is a pun ‘May the Qilin bring you a son’ (qilin songzi). The Qilin is a mythical creature that has the same role as the stork in the West. The hook is marked with the name Zi Cheng (自成) who may have been the silversmith or the retailer. Under the hook is a depiction of a Lion (Harmony, Blessings, Protection as well as High Rank) and three small bell-shaped squatting Boys (Many sons) with Peaches (Longevity) in their hands complement the set. The ensemble dates from the late Qing (1644 – 1912) to the early Republic period (1912 – 1947). Total length including hook 34.5.cm. Boy length 7.4 cm. Width 2.8 cm. Depth 2.2 cm. Weight 90 grams.