1. Cheating handkerchief, late Qing dynasty
As the Civil Service Examination stressed the candidates' accuracy in memorizing the traditional classics, the commonly-used cheating method was to write the texts on their stationery and personal accessories that one can sneak into the examination rooms. (Courtesy of Mr. Chris Hall)

2. Embroidered handkerchief holder, counted stitch, diamond pattern (Courtesy of Mr. Chris Hall). Along with other small items like purses, fan and spectacle cases, the handkerchief holder is hung from men's belt in Qing Dynasty, showing off one's status.

3. Printed opera scene with names of famous actors in the traditional Chinese story "Third Wife Teaches Her Son" (Courtesy of Mr. Chris Hall).

4.1966 Printed calendar with Chinese characters and cranes and Chairman Mao. (Courtesy of Mr. Chris Hall)
We are delighted to find that the 1966 calendar is identical to this year's 2005, an auspicious symbol.

5. A large size Yi minority, Yunnan kerchief with cross stitch depicting a festive scene. With characters showing the maker's name, name of the beloved one and the year 1981.

6. Miao minority wax resist indigo kerchief with Chinese characters of birds and flowers, celebrating spring . 1930s Guizhou( Courtesy of Mr. Fong Siu Nang)