When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Up for sale is a beautiful, highly collectible Antique Chinese Cricket Cage (Holder) dating back to the late Qing Dynasty (circa 1890s). This piece is a textbook example of traditional Chinese scholar's objects and insect husbandry, boasting exceptional provenance, completeness, and historical authenticity.
Key Features & Provenance
• Official "Jian Ding" (鉴定) Seal: Features a rare, partially intact red-and-gold Chinese Cultural Relics Bureau appraisal stamp on the exterior. This official seal proves government inspection and authenticates the item as a genuine historic artifact cleared for export in the 20th century.
• Handmade Interior Brass Coil: Retains its original, fragile, interior brass wire spiral perch. This handmade coil allowed the cricket to stay comfortably suspended while acting as a natural acoustic amplifier for its song.
• Molded Gourd Body: The smooth, hourglass form was achieved using traditional Mogu (molded gourd) techniques, growing the living gourd inside a custom template to ensure perfect symmetry.
• Three-Piece Assembly: Includes the organic molded gourd body, a beautifully turned dark wood rim/collar, and a matching pierced ventilation lid to keep the insect secure while providing airflow.
Condition Report
• Gourd Body: Excellent structural condition with a rich, naturally aged honey-amber patina. No major cracks, splits, or structural flaws.
• Components: The wooden collar and pierced lid fit together nicely. The interior brass wire coil is intact and firmly seated.
• Label Wear: The historic Jian Ding paper seal is partially torn and shows age-appropriate wear, as is typical for exported antiques of this vintage (see photos for exact detail). It has been intentionally left uncleaned to preserve its provenance.
