Chinese Toggle Depicting 2 Monkeys
About this piece
Wide-eyed seated figure holds a smaller one on its head like a hat.
This toggle depicting 2 monkeys is from China, and dates to the 19th century. It is jade. The dragon is a popular toggle motif symbolizing wisdom, ambition and prosperity, a five-clawed version represented the emperor, and a dragon with a phoenix suggested marriage and was a wedding gift. Large ringed eyes, folded arms and clearly marked toes distinguish this chunky seated figure in pale grey-white. A second small figure crouches on top of the head. The surface is softly polished and carries a light, even wear. It is 0.75 inches wide, 1 deep and 2.25 high.
One passenger on board, and no one is complaining.




