Very delicate gilt silver, partly enameled, hairpin in the shape of a Buddha’s hand decorated with a circular Shou character. A round Shou character is a pun ‘May you have Longevity as well as Completeness (yuanman). The circular shape (yuan) means ‘Fulfillment’ or ‘Completeness’. The Buddha’s hand is a symbol of Protection. It is mounted on a spring which moves when the owner is walking and holds some enameled auspicious flowers. There is a thin ring at the end which was meant for attachment of a charm chain (See Quick Find 7506). The hairpin dates from the late Qing (1644 – 1912) to the early Republic period (1912 – 1947). Length 7.1 cm. Width 2.3 cm.