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Two Pigs

Western Han dynasty (206 BCE–9 CE)
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
Known as “hand warmers,” hardstone pigs were common Han tomb furnishings, placed in the hands of the deceased. Pigs are a symbol of wealth in China, so they were likely meant to provide for the deceased in the afterlife. These examples are realistic in form; over time, such pigs became more stylized, their carving reduced to a few sharp cuts.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 西汉 玉猪两件
  • Title: Two Pigs
  • Period: Western Han dynasty (206 BCE–9 CE)
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Jade (nephrite)
  • Dimensions: Each: H. 1 15/16 in. (5 cm): L. 5 1/2 in. (14 cm)
  • Classification: Jade
  • Credit Line: Lent by Xi'an Museum
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art