Antique Chinese Heidao elongated button from the 19th century Lot M13

The detail and intricacies of the carving on this 19th century Heidao button is simply amazing! The markings are symbolic of wealth, prosperity and wisdom! This amazing button has been carved from a peach stone. Heidao is the Chinese folk art of carving fruit stones and walnuts. Such carvings may have begun from the Chinese belief that the peach symbolises life and longevity, or it may be because "peach" is pronounced the same as the word for "escape". Using, or wearing, peach stones to ward off evil and avoid bad luck was a tradition that likely evolved into this art form. By the Ming Dynasty Heidao had become a fashion accessory as well as an art form. Since the item doesn't have the original backing, I believe it has been refurbished and updated with a metal backing. Purchased from an estate sale. Stones and metals have not been tested. Disclaimer: The actual color of the items may vary from what is displayed on your screen due to display settings and lighting conditions. The colors in the depicted images should only be used as an approximate guide. If your satisfaction of an item depends solely on colors matching exactly as they were displayed on your screen, please refrain from purchasing. 🚫 No trades ❌ No holds ❓ Timely responses, but be patient 📏 Measurements on request, know your size ✅ If it’s listed, it’s available 🔵 Reasonable offers considered through the offer button 💨 Smoke-free, dog-friendly home ⚠️ All sales are final