THE SIMON CHANG COLLECTION – A fascinating Chinese antique child’s hat in the form of the mythological qilin beast, the elaborately constructed hat made of satin features the qilin of a pale blue satin intricately embroidered with gold thread throughout, bulging eyes, dorsal spines, articulating tail, ears and flames emerging from its mouth with large fangs and an orange embroidered tongue, the qilin is set upon a red silk cap with long back flap and ear covers for warmth, these hats were to ward of evil spirits by demonstrating the strength of the animal – the ears would hear evil, the eyes would spot danger and mouth with dagger teeth showed ferocity, thereby protecting the wearer, circa late Qing dynasty late 19th century. Measuring 14 inches W x 19 L laid flat.