White jade figure 'horse', Qing dynasty, Qianlong

A pure, carved Hetian white jade figure in the form of a horse. The horse has reddish-golden spots on its mane and sides. The animal is lying on all four legs, with its head turned backwards and its tail tucked to the side. The details such as the mane, skin, legs and face stand out for their good representation, delicate and naturalistic poses. In very good condition. Carved jade animals were most popular from the Song to the Qing dynasty. The uses for the carvings were diverse: paperweight, pendant or 'toy' for scholars. 

This type of white jade is native to Hetian province. The colour is combined with the white hue of the jade and is immersed in the texture. The colour of the skin is due to 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. Furthermore, the fact that the material used is jade shows that it is made with meaning and for social status. 

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

Size: 5.3 x 3 x 8 cm; Weight: 148 g