Pig in Recumbent Position

1st–2nd century
Not on view
Small images of pigs—a symbol of wealth in ancient China—sculpted in jade or soapstone, were often placed in the hands of the deceased to express the wish for wealth in the afterlife.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 東漢 玉握豬
  • Title: Pig in Recumbent Position
  • Period: Eastern Han dynasty (25–220)
  • Date: 1st–2nd century
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Jade (nephrite)
  • Dimensions: H. 1 1/4 in. (3.2 cm); L. 4 1/4 in. (10.8 cm)
  • Classification: Jade
  • Credit Line: Gift of George Coe Graves, 1930
  • Object Number: 30.120.128
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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