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ANTIQUE QING DYNASTY CELADON JADE
BELT HOOK HANDLE MAGNIFYING GLASS
WITH TOURMALINE STONES
Available for purchase is an antique Chinese magnifying glass. The handle is made from a very old celadon jade belt hook with a dragon head on the top end. The back side of the handle has a knob for attaching the magnifying glass frame. The frame appears to be made of brass and has a flower and leaf design. The frame is also set with colorful gemstones, which I believe to be tourmaline and green jade. The piece measures about 7 1/2" long and 3 1/2" wide. The jade belt hook is approximately 3 1/2" long.I purchased this magnifying glass from the estate of a wealthy family that had many fine antique items from all over the world. Other similar magnifying glasses that I've seen online were said to have been made during the Qing dynasty, most likely the late 19th century. The jade belt hook handle is likely much older.Jade belt hooks like this onewere commonly used up to the beginning of the 19th century. Their use declined during the mid-late 19th century as societal decadence set in and trade wars, drug wars, and general economic struggles threatened many Chinese cultural traditions. Because of the need for quick cash, many items were produced using older jades mounted onto utilitarian, but highly popular and marketable everyday objects. These "curiosities" saw increasing popularity in the West during the Victorian Era.
Condition of this Chinese magnifying glass is EXCELLENT. It appears undamaged with no missing stones. The jade handle has some natural, small russet inclusions. Some of the stones have a tiny hole drilled near the edge, perhaps repurposed from a piece of jewelry. Overall, this antique magnifying glass looks fantastic and displays beautifully. It would make a fine addition to any collection. Please take a close look at the many photos I've provided and judge condition for yourself. I'm confident you'll be very pleased with this purchase.If you collect antique Chinese items, don't miss your opportunity to purchase this offering. My Buy It Now price of only $949 is a bargain. I've seen similar magnifying glasses sell for up to $1400 or more. So, buy it now before someone else beats you to the deal!While you're here, please check out my other listings by clicking on the link below. Whenever possible, I'll be happy to reduce shipping for combined purchases.See my other listings for more great items!
Payment is due immediately after payment. Virginia residents will need to add 5.3% state sales tax to the final purchase price. E-bay has also started charging sales tax in several other states recently, something beyond my control.
For international purchases, the buyer is responsible for all customs fees. The declared value listed on the customs form will be the final selling price of the item. I will not list the item as a "gift" to avoid customs charges.
If you're the lucky buyer of this Chinese magnifier, it will come to you VERY carefully packaged via USPS Ground Advantage or Priority Mail (your choice). Shipping will be actual charges from zip code 22980 (packaged weight between 1 and 2 pounds). International buyers will need to e-mail me for a shipping quote.
E-bay no longer allows sellers to offer buyers the option of purchasing shipping insurance. I will insure this item at my own expense.
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