Pretty lavender jadeite specimen carved into a belt hook, fitted with stamped 14k yellow gold mount. Displayed suspended from a decorative frame with stand. The hook measures approx. 2-3/4"L.
From an early date Chinese men used sashes to hold up their trousers. In the Eastern Zhou period (770-221 BC), belt ornaments came into common use, a practice that was stimulated by contact with nomadic tribes. As horse riding became a way of life, belts were needed to hold up the trousers or fasten the jacket. The long robe known as a shenyi, which became popular at this time, was secured by a belt, and so also required a hook. A large number of garment hooks have been found in tombs of the Eastern Zhou period. Belt hooks quickly became items for elaborate ornamentation, in many materials. At the time, personal decoration became very important as a mark of status and wealth. Gold and jade hooks were made, with bronze and iron used as less expensive alternatives.
200/300 Sold $184.00
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