Qing Dynasty dress and regalia was codified by the Qianlong Emperor in 1759. The ruling classes of princes, noblemen, officials and mandarins all had to follow an elaborate system of dressing involving robes, hats, insignias and a host of other ornaments and accessories. The decorative buttons used on these robes were designed with their own particular meaning, usually alluding to personal virtues or good fortune. 

These original buttons have been re-cast in solid sterling silver and inter-linked to create a pair of unique cufflinks.