Agate "Archer" ring, Qing Dynasty, Qianlong

An archer's ring carved from a single piece of agate. The exterior is decorated with a relief of an archer on horseback preparing to shoot a deer. The transparency and quality of the carving are exceptional, and it is in very good condition. 

Heilongjiang agate is found in the northwest of the province. This carbon dioxide mineral is of gem grade and is a variant of chalcedony. Agate from this region has beautiful and warm colours, rich colours and a hard texture, very useful for carved crafts. This product was used as a tribute in the Qing dynasty. 

This type of ring is placed on the pulling finger which is the thumb of the right hand to hook the string when practising archery. Over time they have become more decorative than functional. During the Qing dynasty they became very popular, especially during the Qianlong reign, because the emperors enjoyed making the fingers ring. Following their wishes, princes, ministers and even local officials donated rings to the court. Other jade jewellery for men included pendants and belts. 

Provenance: Important collection of Tommy Lam, Hong Kong, from 1980.

Size: 2.8 x 3.1 cm; Weight: 23 g