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Thumb Ring — Anonymous, Qing dynasty (1644-1911) or Republican period (1912-49)

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Written by: Lucas NakamuraEditor · Jewels & Gemstones
Asian Art · Catalogue no. 40526
Anonymous, Qing dynasty (1644-1911) or Republican period (1912-49)

Thumb Ring

StatusReference work · Not for sale
Held byCleveland Museum of Art
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Jade rings were worn by men on the thumb of the right hand to assist with holding and pulling the string of the archer’s bow. However, thumb rings were also fashionable accessories for civil officials in the late Qing dynasty.

Artist / MakerAnonymous, Qing dynasty (1644-1911) or Republican period (1912-49)
Date1800s–1900s
Culture / OriginChina, Qing dynasty (1644-1911) or Republican period (1912-49)
Mediumwhite and green jade
DimensionsDiameter: 3.1 cm (1 1/4 in.); Overall: 2.6 cm (1 in.)
DepartmentChinese Art
TypeJewelry
About the Artist

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Provenance & Source

Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.

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