Chinese Jade and Stone

Animals

Chinese Jade

Reclining Dog  with Mushroom

circa 1000 to 1300 AD

early to mid Medieval Period

dimensions:

2 1/2" long x 2 1/4" wide x 1 1/4" high

custom wooden base included

SOLD

Variegated nephrite jade reclining dog with plant in jaws.  Plant has a tuber or mushroom like bulb at one end, and two long leaves that wrap around dog's body, probably a Ling Shi mushroom, a symbol of health and longevity / immortality since ancient times.  Beautiful and distinctive brown and white matrix in stone. Skillfully carved. 

  Dogs tail is split as well, and tucked underneath the body.  Very nice stylized carving with simple lines and solid form. Distinctive features with flattened face, long hair and ears, probably a Pekingese, possibly Shih Tzu.

The Pekingese or 'Peke' is truly an 'IMPERIAL' dog, with a history dating back as far as 2000 B.C. For Centuries the Pekingese was worshipped in the temples of China, and was custom for the emperor to select four Pekes who were to become his 'bodyguards'. These four Pekes would precede the emperor on occasions of state, two of them announcing his approach at correct intervals with sharp, piecing barks, the other two daintily holding the hem of his royal robe in their mouths. THEFT of a Peke, or Injury to one of them was considered to be a crime punishable by DEATH.

In 1898 the first Pekingese came to America. They were admitted to the A.K.C. registry in 1906.

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