White jade "dog" pendant, Qing dynasty, 19th century

Carved Hetian white jade pendant, clear and pure, in the shape of a dog. The animal is lying on all four legs and with the front legs is playing with a ball. The head is facing backwards and the tail is tucked to the side. The details such as the back, the skin, the paws and the face are remarkable for their good representation. In very good condition.

Since ancient times, already in the Tang dynasty, there are carvings of dogs in jade, and their representation is an artistic tradition. The carved jade animals were more popular from the Song Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty. They stand out for their delicacy and naturalistic poses. The uses dedicated to the carvings were diverse: paperweight, pendant or "toy" for scholars. 

In this case, the dog is found playing with a ball or treasure, which may indicate an auspicious purpose, "財富在前" the desire to obtain wealth. Dogs also symbolize commitment and loyalty to family.

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

Size: 6.8 x 4 x 3.1 cm; Weight: 132 g