Chinese Empress Brooch Appraisal

Vintage Molded Resin Chinese Empress Brooch with Rhinestone Accents

This item is a large vertical brooch measuring approximately 2.75 inches in height, depicting a Chinese Empress or noblewoman in traditional ceremonial attire. The piece is constructed from a creamy, off-white molded resin, which mimics the appearance of carved ivory or cinnabar but is identified as synthetic due to it not being cold to the touch. The figure is shown from the waist up, wearing an intricate phoenix crown (fengguan) with dangling side tassels and a high-collared robe featuring detailed dragon and cloud motifs. The craftsmanship displays a high level of detail in the molding of the fabric folds and jewelry. The piece is embellished with eight inset clear faceted rhinestones: three across the crown and five running vertically down the center of the garment. The overall condition appears excellent with no visible chips or cracks, though a light patina of dust is visible in the recessed areas of the molding, which serves to highlight the fine details. The style is indicative of mid-20th-century costume jewelry, likely produced during the 1960s-1970s orientalist fashion trend. No visible maker's marks are present on the front, suggesting it may be signed on the reverse or was a mass-produced boutique item from that era.