Exquisite Rococo period 18 carat gold clasp chased with the mythical Ho ho bird amidst scrolls and flowers.Georgian London hallmark for 1776 to reverse. 1.75cms by 1.5 cms.
The Ho ho bird seems to me an iconic symbol of the Rococo movement ,and was profilic in wood carving,mirror crestings and all Chinoiserie decoration in the arts.It was first seen by English craftsmen in Chinese laquerwork and it is fascinating to think that these craftsmen would not have known if these phoenix-like birds were real or mythical.The bird was said to bring luck, symbolising good fortune; specifically longevity, fidelity and wisdom.