Slightly translucent chalcedony with black colored inclusions
China, Qing dynasty (1644-1911)
A detailed, both sided carving, which considers the natural inclusions of the stone
Pendant with double gourd and bats between ruyi and branches
Fine open work
Ribbon with a pearl
Dimensions of the chalcedony: c. 4 x 3.5 cm
Good condition
Estimate by Auctionata Expert: 2,600 Euro

Condition:

The pendant is in good condition with only slight signs of age and wear. The dimensions of the chalcedony is c. 4 x 3.5 cm.



Bottle Gourd

The double gourd, also called calabash, is a symbol of healing and longevity in China. It frequently appears in combination with sages or immortals, who often wear the latter on a string on a belt. The first pieces in the shape of a double gourd date back to Neolithic times. Even Chinese healers used gourds as vessels for various medical fluids. Today a myriad of materials are used to make various objects as well as jewelry in the popular shape of the gourd.



Bat

Because the Chinese word for bat is homonymous with the word for luck, the bat is a symbol of luck and happiness. The bat is ubiquitous in Chinese art; whether stylized or highly embellished. The curves of the wings are often reminiscent of ruyi elements and the animals are usually surrounded by small cloud formations. In the late Ming and Qing dynasties red bats were very popular, because they symbolized overflowing happiness. A group of five bats is also referred to as the ‘Five Blessings’ or the ‘Five Happinesses’, expressing the desire for wealth, health, longevity, a virtuous life and natural death. A group of eight bats is a symbol of the ‘Eight Immortals’.

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