Chinese Bronze Fish Shaped Cricket Cage Holder Scholar Ornament Qing Dynasty 18C
£159.00
Inventory Code: INV4849
Object: Cricket Cage Holder
Material: Cast Bronze
Origin: China
Period: Qing Dynasty
Date: 18th Century
Decoration: Fish-form body with open lattice cage, engraved details, hinged opening, and suspension loops
Marked: Unmarked
Measurements:
Height: 1.5 in / 4.0 cm
Width: 4.3 in / 10.9 cm
Depth: 1.3 in / 3.3 cm
Condition:
FAIR (3/5) - Age-related wear and an attractive natural patina throughout. The lower tail fin is broken and missing, as shown in the photographs. The hinged opening operates correctly, with expected wear and minor casting irregularities consistent with age. No other obvious repairs observed. Please review the photos carefully for more details.
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DESCRIPTION
An authentic late 18th century Chinese Qing Dynasty bronze cricket holder in the form of a fish. The pierced body provided ventilation for a live cricket, while the hinged opening allowed easy access to the interior. Finely cast with engraved details, stylised fins, and a decorative tail, this is a well-executed example of a traditional Chinese scholar’s object.
The fish form is both decorative and symbolic, representing abundance and prosperity in Chinese culture. A scarce and highly collectible piece of Qing Dynasty bronze work.
COLLECTOR’S NOTE
Cricket keeping was a refined pastime in China, particularly during the Qing Dynasty, where singing crickets were admired for their song and sometimes entered into friendly competitions. Decorative bronze cricket holders such as this were carried, displayed, or suspended, and were produced in a variety of animal forms. Original 18th century examples are increasingly difficult to find and remain highly sought after by collectors of Chinese antiques and ethnographic objects.
NOTES
Please review all photos carefully as they form part of the description.