A Chinese nesting set of turtles for weighing and/or stamping. Originally 6 stamps. In this set, 4 are missing: 2 tiny turtles are missing, which can be slid into a shell on the back, and the smallest one at the bottom.
Metal stamps, probably lead or tin. The 3rd turtle has been reattached at the legs.
If I have researched correctly, the stamps feature simplified ancient Chinese characters, and the turtle stamps are also used to stamp weighed goods such as spices after packing.
Purchased in China in the late 1980s. Age unknown. At least mid-century, but could be older.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsGrey, Green, RedMaterialMetalNumber of items1Height4 cmWidth4 cmDepth4 cmSigns of usageLack of Parts