Chinese Antique Carved Mother of Pearl Gaming Token

Regular price $48.00

Such a wonderful little curiosity, which I'd treat as a talisman, perhaps carrying around and pulling out when in need of a little extra good luck. This is a really nice one, made of mother of pearl and very finely hand-carved with different scenes on either side, plus a decorative border of flowers and vines and corresponding carved edge. These sorts of gaming counters were made by Chinese artisans in the 18th and early 19th centuries, typically commissioned by wealthy foreigners and engraved with their monograms, and would be used as gambling chips or tokens. This one has a blank circle at the center of one side where the monogram would be carved (and still could be!)

Excellent condition. 2 1/2" long x 7/8 tall x 1/16" deep.