Antique Tian-Tsui (üc´ä) Hair Pin - Butterfly/Moth - 1038

Known as üc´ä / µã´ä 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.