Entry/Object ID
069 ChineseDescription
An elaborate Chinese ceremonial hat spike featuring a tall, faceted rock crystal finial set within an intricately worked gold-plated silver mount. The pointed crystal rises from an ornate openwork setting embellished with scrolling foliage, lotus-petal motifs, and decorative beading. The central spherical element is richly decorated with floral and foliate relief and accented by a circular, cabochon-like stone. The broad, domed base features elaborate repoussé-style ornamentation, pierced detailing, and a beaded lower rim. Associated with fifth-rank imperial officials, this ceremonial ornament was designed to be worn atop a formal court hat as part of the chaofu ensemble, the elaborate ceremonial dress prescribed for important state occasions during the Qing Dynasty.Name/Title
#69 Fifth-Rank Hat Spike with Crystal