Agate figurine "Musician", Qing dynasty, Qianlong

Figure carved from a single piece of agate in a similar shade to "冰糖" (Bīngtáng). It depicts a man, half-kneeling and playing a musical instrument, wearing a tunic and a seashell hat. The beard and face have European features. 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. 

The Hu people are characterised by different features: deep-set eyes, high noses, thick beards and headscarves. The inhabitants of this region are constantly exposed to the wind and sand, and their faces are full of clearly visible wrinkles caused by the climate.

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

Size: 4.9 x 3.4 cm; Weight: 50 g