A FINE KINGFISHER FEATHER EMBELLISHED 'DRAGON AND PHOENIX' HEADDRESS19th centuryThe elaborate semi-circular head dress stabilised with metal wires with images of dragons, phoenixes, peonies, foliate border, stylised clouds and auspicious characters, embellished with kingfisher-feathers, corals, pearls, agate and other semi-precious stones.21.5cm (8 1/2in) highFor further information on this lot please visit theCondition Report: Some missing in the kingfisher and the hardstones details. Expected oxidation to the gilt and some bending of the metal wires. Probably some missing wire decoration to the right side, which appear emptier than the rest.Provenance: The style of such embellishment by using kingfisher feathers known asdian cui was considered one of the most opulent form of adornment for empresses, concubines and wives of high-ranking officials during the Ming and Qing dynasties. This form of art was originally reserved only for the Imperial court for pieces made for special occasions.