Jade. China, Qing Dynasty (1644- 1912), approx. 19th cent.
This many-pierced and magnificent complexly crafted pendant is a variation of the she type, originally a thumb protector for archers. This she is surrounded by two phoenix birds, a twisted chilong dragon and – above – a tiger. In a certain way, this is also a searching game. The shield-shaped thumb protector, tapering to a point upwards, is smooth on one side, the other presents a horned taotie mask. Almost white Fast jade with light reddish nuance from old colour, very good translucence. HEIGHT 6,8 CM
From an old Austrian-Hungarian collection
This jade was examined by Univ. Prof. Filippo Salviati, declared to be authentic, furthermore carefully and critically judged according to their time of origin. Salviati teaches Chinese art in the department of Orientalism at the University of “La Sapienza“ in Rome and is one of the most renowned jade experts.