Description:

We are not sure about the original use of this piece. It might have been a stopper to fit into another object such as a bottle. In the past the buds, fruit and bark of the magnolia were used in medicine to cure illnesses like anaemia. The magnolia blossom was also a symbol of a beautiful woman.

Glass, carved
Width: 6.0 cm, length: 11.0 cm, depth: 5.4 cm

Chinese Description:

玉兰花状配件 中国，清代，约1800-1900 这物件或许用作瓶子的钮盖，而配座则由象牙制成的。过去玉兰花花蕾、果实及茎部皆可入药，以治疗贫血等病症。玉兰花清雅，更是美女风华脱俗的象征。 玻璃，碾琢﹔象牙

Creator: Unknown

Date: 1800-1900, Qing dynasty

Copyright: Bristol Museums, Galleries & Archives

Object ID:N4600