Era: Late Qing Dynasty to Early Republic of China
Region: Beijing
Diameter: 6.8 cm
Weight: 76 grams (each)
This pair of exquisite bracelets features a surface adorned with gilt longevity patterns, exuding an air of nobility and elegance. The longevity pattern, a highly representative motif in traditional Chinese decorative arts, has a long history and rich symbolism. It is widely used in architecture, furniture, textiles, brocade, and gold and silverware, becoming an indispensable part of Chinese culture.
The longevity pattern on the bracelets is intricate and delicate, with each detail showcasing the artisan's superb craftsmanship and deep cultural heritage. The gilt longevity patterns shimmer on the surface, as if carrying centuries of history and wisdom. Wearing these bracelets allows one to experience the unique charm of ancient culture.
The base of the decorative pattern is filled with dense fish-roe patterns. This texture, fine and even like fish eggs, adds a sense of mystery and antiquity to the bracelets. The combination of the fish-roe and longevity patterns makes the bracelets visually rich, with clear layers, highlighting a unique aesthetic appeal.
The connecting part of the bracelets is crafted with a delicate hinge clasp design, ensuring stability while making it easy for the wearer to open and close. The opening is equipped with a tab snap-lock, providing both security and practicality, ensuring the bracelets won’t accidentally fall off during wear, giving the wearer peace of mind.
From the combination of decorative patterns to the craftsmanship of the connecting clasp, the artisans' exceptional skills and profound cultural knowledge are evident. The seamless blend of longevity and fish-roe patterns, along with the meticulous design of the hinge clasp and tab snap-lock, achieve a perfect harmony in the details.
The longevity pattern, a gem of traditional Chinese decorative arts, can trace its origins back to ancient India, Greece, and Persia. In those cultures, the longevity pattern was used as a talisman or religious symbol, signifying auspiciousness and happiness. Later, as cultural exchanges progressed, this motif was introduced to China, where it gained widespread use and development.
During the Tang Dynasty, Empress Wu Zetian designated the longevity pattern as an auspicious symbol and gave it the pronunciation of "wan," symbolizing eternal good fortune. From then on, the longevity pattern, named after the character "wan," became an indispensable lucky motif in traditional Chinese culture.
The longevity pattern is revered not only for its simple yet elegant design but also for its deep cultural significance and auspicious meanings. In Chinese society, the longevity pattern embodies people's hopes and desires for a better life.
Over time, the longevity pattern has seamlessly integrated into Chinese life, becoming a distinct part of the nation's traditional decorative culture. Whether in architecture, furniture, textiles, or gold and silverware, the longevity pattern adds a touch of auspiciousness and blessing to these works of art.
This pair of gilt longevity pattern bracelets is a reflection of traditional Chinese decorative culture. They carry the wisdom and history of millennia, embodying the wearer's pursuit of a better life. On the wearer's wrist, they are not just accessories but a legacy of ancient culture and a blessing passed down through the ages.
