Jadeite oval plaque, Qing dynasty

Plaque carved in jadeite with relief decoration. It depicts a carp swimming up a river, a reference to those who persevered and swam against the current for hundreds of years up the Yellow River in China, until one of them achieved the impossible and reached the 'Dragon Gate'. As a reward she was transformed into a dragon. This image is therefore a symbol of perseverance and strength. It shows wear due to age and use. 

Size: 6,30 x 4.20 x 1.20 cm; Weight: 62 g