Twelve Animals of the Chinese Zodiac

Period: Qing dynasty (1644–1911)

Date: 18th–19th century

Culture: China

Medium: Jade (nephrite)

Dimensions: Overall (each approx.): H. 2 1/4 in. (5.7 cm); W. 1 3/4 in. (4.4 cm)

Classification: Jade

Credit Line: Gift of Heber R. Bishop, 1902

Accession Number: 02.18.730a–l

Description

The twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac—rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, ram, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig—have been popular decorative motifs in various media. This set of carvings, made of flawless pale green jade, must have been particularly prized during the Qing dynasty: two additional identical sets from the imperial collection are known (now in the Palace Museum, Beijing). With extraordinary talent and skill, the master carvers created a lively group of individual characters with accessories in their hands and in varied postures.

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