Antique Tian-Tsui (點翠) Hair Pin - Butterfly/Moth - 1015

Known as 點翠 / 点翠 to the Chinese, Tian-Tsui translates to "dotting with kingfishers". Its a traditional practice in which tiny kingfisher feathers were cut to size and incorporated into sterling silver and silver gilt jewelry to create a dazzling fluorescent blue finish. The technique was lost with the Chinese cultural revolution in the 1940's.

This hair pin was made by hand in the early 20th century - approximately 1910's and 1920's.

This large intricate hair pin is a one of a kind antique. The butterfly is composed of several layers of height for a 3d effect. Pin measures measure 3" - 4" tall, it's made from silver base metal with gold plating and feather accents. Delicate feather exterior is 95% intact, additionally this pin features working springs and articulating metal parts.