B-5100 Chinese Silver Fingernail Protector Brooch

 

The wearing of fingernail protectors was specifically associated with the Manchurian high culture of the Qing Dynasty. A fingernail cover similar to this was an ornament to be worn by royals in Qing dynasty to protect their long fingernails. Although scholars of Chinese costumes usually date fingernail protectors to the Qing dynasty, they are characteristic of the late 19th century.

This protector has multi color blue enamel work on each side with coral and turquoise glass cabochons across the top. The elaborate filigree setting is marked Silver on the back and it measures 5/8 inch diameter x 3-1/4 inches long. Consisdering it's age, this protector is in exceptional condition.