Paperweight
Unknown Artist
Medium
Nephrite
Dimensions
H. 2 15/16 in. (7.4 cm); W. 2 7/16 in. (6.2 cm); L. 3/8 in. (0.9 cm)
Classification
Jade
Culture & Period
China · Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Qianlong period (1736–95)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Heber R. Bishop, 1902
Accession Number
02.18.533
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite nephrite jade paperweight, crafted during China's Qing dynasty Qianlong period (173695), exemplifies the imperial era's mastery of jade carving. Measuring just 2 15/16 inches high, 2 7/16 inches wide, and a slender 3/8 inch long, its compact form belies the intricate artistry likely depicting dragons—powerful symbols of imperial authority, strength, and good fortune. Nephrite, for its toughness and creamy translucency, was sourced from Hetian in Xinjiang and transformed in imperial workshops into functional yet luxurious objects like this one. During the Qianlong emperor's reig...