Fragment of a Headdress
late 17th–early 18th century (Qing Dynasty)
ChinaOne of the most incredible things about Qing Dynasty jewelry, especially headpieces, is that the blue portions are shaped from Kingfisher feathers. They are cut to shape and bound by gold coiled wire so as to both flutter with movement and create soft jingling sounds.
If you happen to be in the Boston area anytime soon, the MFA has an ongoing jewelry exhibit (ends June 2014, so they obviously rotate the pieces over time) with an incredible Qing Dynasty headdress. Do check it out!