Silver pendant and necklace. The pendant has the shape of a Qilin. A Qilin is a mythical creature that has the same role as the stork in the West. It is benevolent to all living beings and symbolizes Longevity, Grandeur and Distinguished offspring. Such a pendant was often presented to a young boy with a wish to do well during the Civil Service Examinations. It dates from the late Qing (1644 – 1912) to the early Republic period ( 1912 – 1947).Total length chain 44 cm. Pendant width 8.9 cm. Height 7.1 cm. Depth 1.3 cm. Total weight 48 grams.