Traditional Chinese Metal Bookmarks

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Add a touch of Chinese imperial history to your favorite book. Each bookmark is a carefully crafted reproduction of a legendary Chinese artifact, reflecting the rich style of the Ming and Qing dynasties in elegant design.

The Imperial Phoenix Crowns

Inspired by the Ceremonial Headpieces of Ming Empresses, these bookmarks let you own a symbol of the best Ming Dynasty goldsmithing. The designs are based on the Nine Dragons and Nine Phoenixes Crown of Empress Xiaoduan and the Twelve Dragons and Nine Phoenixes Crown of Empress Dowager Xiaojing.

According to the "History of Ming," these crowns were strictly reserved for empresses during grand ceremonies, temple visits, and court assemblies. They are made using the “Tian cui” kingfisher feather inlay, thousands of pearls, and hundreds of gemstones and rubies.

The Nine Dragons and Nine Phoenixes Crown

Famous for its bright "tian cui" (kingfisher feather) inlay, this crown combines brilliant blue feathers with detailed gold trim, creating a look that stays vivid over time. The size and detail of the inlay show the height of historical craftsmanship. Each green phoenix is carefully shown in flight, with spread wings and fanned tail feathers that bring a sense of life and energy. 

The Twelve Dragons and Nine Phoenixes Crown

Known for its beautiful decorations, this crown showcases the best of Ming Dynasty gold and silverwork. A hollow golden dragon sits at the top, with seven more in the front and four in the back. Nine phoenixes, made with bright kingfisher feathers and open wings, decorate the lower front and sides. Each one looks different, making a lifelike group that stands as a lasting symbol of imperial beauty.

Embroidered Butterfly Cloud Shoulder

This cloud-shaped bookmark honors the “Cloud Shoulder” (Yun-jian), an important accessory of Qing Dynasty fashion. Initially used as simple cloaks to protect the collars of clothes, they later became decorative brocade masterpieces. The decorative motifs on Cloud Shoulders also carry deeper meaning, reflecting the blend of Chinese clothing culture and art. In particular, the design reproduced on this bookmark features two butterflies poised to fly, along with fine golden bells. In the past, these bells let others know that someone important was coming; now they stand as a visual symbol of wealth, beauty, and grace.

• Material: metal
  
• Size:
  
  • The Nine Dragons and Nine Phoenixes Crown: 6.2x7.2cm
  • The Twelve Dragons and Nine Phoenixes Crown: 8x6cm
  • Embroidered Butterfly Cloud Shoulder: 9x5.5cm