Bamboo and Peach Hand Warmer

This 19th century round bronze handwarmer would have been placed in a women’s quarters in a Northern Chinese home. It would have been filled with hot coals so the woman could warm her hands when the weather was cold. The top is pierced with a fine and elaborate peach and bamboo design. Peaches were thought to grow in the orchard of the Queen Mother of the West and represent immortality. Bamboo, which remains green year round, is a symbol of longevity and vitality.