Pendant
Unknown Artist
20th century
Medium
Jadeite, seed pearls
Dimensions
L. 3 1/8 in. (4.8 cm); W. 1 7/8 in. (4.8 cm)
Classification
Jade
Culture
China
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Alfred W. Hoyt Collection, Bequest of Rosina H. Hoppin, 1965
Accession Number
65.86.194
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite jadeite pendant, crafted by an unknown Chinese artist in the 20th century exemplifies the enduring reverence for jade in Chinese culture. Measuring just 3 1/8 inches long 1 7/8 inches wide, the piece features intricately carved dragons—a motif symbolizing imperial power, good fortune, and protection. Adorned with delicate seed pearls, it served as elegant jewelry, blending the translucent green glow of jadeite with the pearls' soft luster for a harmonious, luxurious effect. Jade has been prized in China for millennia, associated with purity, immortality, and heavenly harmony, o...