Silver pendant in the shape of a Boy riding on a Qilin. A boy riding on 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 boy holds a flag in his hand which is decorated with a Swastika (Infinity). In contrast to the West, in China the swastika is a Good Luck symbol introduced from India with the arrival of Buddhism. In his other hand the boy carries a stack of books which represent a High Position as they are the symbol of a Scholar. He is wearing the crown and the long gown of a First Candidate during the Civil Service Exams. Dangling from the Clouds (Granting all wishes) under the qilin hang five chains with small bells which are decorated with floral designs. The pendant dates from the late Qing (1644 – 1912) to the early Republic period ( 1912 – 1947). Width 7.2 cm. Height 7.7 cm. Depth 1.2 cm. Weight 47.5 grams.