Antique Yellow-Orange Amber Chinese Court Necklace, Mala, 19th Century

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Antique Yellow-Orange Amber Chinese Court Necklace, Mala, 19th Century

About the Item

From the private collection of a noted New York City jewelry designer whose work was featured at Bergdorf Goodman, a fine intense yellow-orange translucent natural amber 108 bead court necklace, mala. The beads are gem quality, measuring 12mm-13mm with fine crazing indicating good age, excellent electrical charge attraction, some natural inclusions. These types of necklaces, sometimes referred to as Mandarin chain or official court beads, were worn as status symbols in China by the members of the Chinese court during the Qing Dynasty, 1644-1912. Embellishments such as counter beads, spacers, plaques and pendants were often a part of these necklaces. Officials sometimes used them as abacuses for business calculations and as worry beads for relaxation, as an amulet and a mark of power and social prestige. Amber is associated with the powers of attraction and benefits of good communication. Natural golden yellow amber is warm to the touch, like holding a piece of sunlight in the palm of your hand. It also produces an electrical charge when rubbed, thus having the power of attraction, similar to the way being friendly has the effect of drawing people to you. In Buddhist practice, amber serves as a reminder to avoid harsh speech and practice kindly communication. Chinese court necklaces are thought to be based on the Buddhist mala, a string of Tibetan prayer beads. Legend has it that when the Emperor Shunzhi invited the fifth Dalai Lama to Beijing in 1652, the later presented the emperor with a beautiful string of Tibetan prayer beads which were so widely admired, they began a trend at court. Chinese emperors and officials were often portrayed in paintings wearing magnificent robes adorned with these long beaded necklaces. Pearls, jade, amber and coral were among the favored materials for court necklaces. This necklace is antique, with slightly irregularly shaped round natural amber beads, indicating being hand-made. When rubbed, it produces an electrical charge and a faint pine scent. The cord on which the beads are strung is of a later date as is usual for pieces of this age. Very good condition with slight abraisions commensurate with age. 117 cm in length

Stone:
Amber
Stone Cut:
Bead
Dimensions:
Diameter: 0.52 in (13 mm)Length: 46.07 in (1,170 mm)
Place of Origin:
China
Period:
19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
19th Century
Condition:
Additions or alterations made to the original: This necklace is on a later cord. Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
New York, NY
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU1887211476272