Chinese Jade Toggle

Creamy carved creature coils in on itself, with curling tendrils sprouting from its back.

This toggle is from China, and dates to the 19th century. It is jade. Jade was generally the most preferred and valued material for toggles, a precious stone integral to Chinese culture since the Neolithic Period and often called the stone of heaven. Compact and white, the form has a rounded head at the top, a diamond-patterned cushion beneath it and pierced curling scrolls at the side. Pale peach tones warm the lower edge. The surface is glossy and the carving is shallow but deliberate. It is 0.5 inches wide, 2.5 deep and 1.5 high.

Busy on top, serene underneath, as sensible things should be.