Images(21)

Framed Chinese Bridal Hair Ornaments

OwnerOwned by James Cromar Watt (Aberdeen, Scotland, 1862 - 1940)

DateQing Dynasty, Daoguang Period (early 19th Century)

Object NameOrnament

Mediumkingfisher feathers, jade, pearl, coral, metal, laquer and wood

ClassificationsApplied Art

DimensionsFrame Size: Height: 132.5 cm, Depth: 6.5 cm, Width: 48 cm

AcquisitionJames Cromar Watt Bequest, 1941.

CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDMS024929

About MeThis is a collection of early 19th century Chinese bridal hair ornaments from the Daoguang Period. The kingfisher bird is reported to have been captured in ancient times in Cambodia in huge numbers. Traditionally, kingfisher feathers were used to adorn these silver gilt and gold headdresses and accessories. Individual filaments were drawn through animal glue and applied to the metal to resemble varied shades of turquoise enamel. Each piece of flora or fauna is then mounted on wire so that it moves; a technique in jewellery making known as en tremblant or trembling. The feathers were a prized material and were associated with status, wealth and royalty. Unsurprisingly, the original birds were hunted to extinction and were later imported from Borneo to fulfil demand for them.