Silver chain and lock with the interesting text ‘Protect the motherland’ (Bao Wei Zhu Guo). This unusual object was most probably made during the end of the Qing Dynasty when foreign powers tried to seize control over China by force. On each side are two facing Dragons which is a pun for ‘Happiness when meeting again’ (xi xiangfeng). Attached to the lock are three bells, one simple round one and two in the shape of fruits. The lock dates from the late Qing (1644 – 1912) to the early Republic period (1912 – 1947). Total length 41 cm. Lock: Width 5.8 cm. Height 4.1 cm. Depth 2.4 cm. Weight 67.9 grams.