White jade figure 'horse and monkey', Qing dynasty, Qianlong

A pure carved Hetian white jade figure with reddish-golden flecks on the underside. The composition consists of a horse and a monkey. The animal is lying down, with its head resting on one leg and facing forward. On one side is a monkey holding onto its mane. The details are remarkable for their delicate, naturalistic poses. Carved jade animals were most popular from the Song to the Qing dynasty. Their uses were diverse: paperweight, pendant or 'toy' for scholars. In very good condition. 

This type of white jade has a hue that blends with the white of the jade and is dipped in texture. The skin colour is due to a concentration of iron oxide and is distributed in dots or flakes in the pores of the surface. 

Horses played an important role in China for growth and protection. They were so fundamental that their figure is associated with status, talents, good luck and power. In this case, it is accompanied by a monkey, symbolizing the enthusiasm of the people in obtaining a good official career. It is expressed with the Chinese idiom "馬上封侯" (Become a marquis immediately). 

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

Size: 5.3 x 4.5 x 11 cm; Weight: 243 g