This is an old Chinese Silver filigree Articulated Fish pendant that has a hinged flap mouth opening or hidden compartment below the mouth, which works great, the latch is secure. On the inside of the lid it is stamped Silver, the top and bottom fins have a slight gold tint to them, there could have been a gold vermeil coating or wash at one time. It has a very delicate and antiquated look and is extremely detailed. The fish has a separately articulated tail and four small articulated ventral fins.

The fish measures 2 1/2 inches across from the mouth to the tail and is 1 1/4 inches across from the top of the tail to the bottom of the tail. The eyes of the fish are coral set stones. As you can see by the pictures it is absolutely gorgeous. The body and the fins all move. There is a small bale at the top of the mouth where a chain is hooked through (the 17 inch chain is included, it is not original to the fish and is not marked silver).

This type of fish is often called a Patch Box and was used to carry small patches to cover marks on the skin, I also have seen it described as a Scent Box or Vinaigrette used with a cotton swab soaked in perfume or smelling salts. It would be a great place to store a nitroglycerin pill or a few aspirins for emergencies. It is in excellent vintage or antique condition and is ready to wear.

This item will be sent 1st Class Mail with Tracking/Delivery Confirmation and Insurance. For more information about me and booth policies, click on Starfisher’s Stars at the top of this page, it will take you to the main page of my booth. Thanks for visiting!