Silver embossed plaque in openwork depicting a Boy seated on a Qilin with a Cymbidium flower in his hand. 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 Cymbidium flower symbolizes Friendship and Grandchildren. In the background Plum flowers are visible. The five petals of the Plum flower symbolize the Five Blessings, Old age, Health, Wealth, Love of Virtue and a Peaceful death. Dangling from chains are four bells with Shou (Longevity) characters and a Drum (frightening away evil spirits). The pendant dates from the late Qing (1644 – 1912) to the early Republic period (1912 – 1947). Total length chain 84 cm. Total height pendant including chains 13.5 cm. Width 9.7 cm. Height 8.1 cm. Depth 0.8 cm.