Silver hairpin of the ‘ruyi-type’ which is decorated with a sacrificial vessel on an altar table. A vessel of this type is called ‘ding’ and it is a symbol of Status and Authority. It was placed on an altar and used to burn incense during ancestor worship. A plum flower blooms on one side of the altar and a lily flower on the other. The plum flower has five petals which are symbolic for the Five Blessings, Old age, Good health, Wealth, Love of virtue and a Peaceful death. The lily flower represents Harmony & Unity. There is a faint impression in the silver of this hairpin which could be a hallmark. It dates from the end of the Qing (1644 – 1912) to the early Republic period (1912 – 1947). Length 9.8 cm. Width 2.8 cm.