This finial from the hat of a Tibetan government minister has been consigned to Anthemion Auctions’ sale in Cardiff on May 24.
Thought to date from the 18th century, the 4in (10cm) high finial is fashioned from a central interior column in silver with goldsmiths’ work from Lhasa forming the exterior. The knob is made from coral (denoting the rank of government minister) and topped with a ruby. Pearls, emeralds and turquoise are also used. Folded inside the baseplate is the list of cautions and responsibilities incumbent with office, in Tibetan and Manchu scripts.