Circa 1920, a wonderful antique Art Deco era sterling silver Chinese suanpan or abacus breloque. A breloque is a trinket, charm, or ornament usually attached to a watch chain, it is now a unique necklace pendant that you can wear daily and adore!
Fully functional as well as decorative the piece is meticulously made, entirely by hand. There are nine rods with two beads on each rod in the upper deck and five beads on each rod in the bottom deck. Given age it is incredible that not one of the tiny beads is missing! Topped in an elongated V-shaped bale and generously sized jump ring this piece is ready to attach to a pocket watch chain or pair with a necklace chain.
In Chinese culture the suanpan symbolizes wealth, prosperity and business acumen, it also signifies a connection to cultural heritage and the preservation of ancient wisdom. Steeped in culture a fabulous collector's piece, and an all round exquisite example of old world craftsmanship!
DETAILS:
METAL: sterling silver throughout
MEASUREMENTS: 2"/5cm drop when suspended, abacus measures 1-5/8"/3.5cm high, 7/8"/2.2cm wide. Jump ring 9mm diameter
HALLMARKS: stamped 'STERLING' on the bale
WEIGHT: 11 grams
DATE: circa 1920, Art Deco
CONDITION: in very, very good antique condition showing age appropriate surface wear and signs of use. The silver beads move freely along the rods. Note the chain shown is not included.
At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished so they are ready to wear and enjoy or give as a gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* We do offer free worldwide shipping on all purchases however; US customers MUST now choose the ‘Delivered Duty Paid’ option instead of the free shipping option. This costs $40.
* Returns - you can return your item for a refund for any reason. Just get in touch within 3 days of receiving your order and return it within 7 days.
* Discount - find special discount and no added tax on our website at www.mercymadge.com
* All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. All measurements and carat weights given are approximations.
* Our photographs have been taken in extreme close up to show you every tiny detail. This often means that any flaws or damage which you can see on the photos will be invisible when viewed normally with the eye. This can also mean that the item can appear larger on the screen than it is in person, so please be sure to read our written description to double check all sizes and dimensions.
* Buying a gift? – your item will arrive gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note, unless otherwise stated antique boxes in our photos are for display only and are not included in the purchase.
Materials: Sterling Silver.