Chinese Figure of a Kylin / Dog on a Staff

Pale dagger-like pin with a fussy little crest at the grip end.

This jade figure of a kylin or dog on a staff is from China, and dates to the 20th century. Jade staffs and animal figures belong to a long Chinese tradition of carving the stone into small objects meant to be handled, displayed or worn. Slender, tapering rod ending in a sharp point, smooth along its length. The head is carved with scalloped, leafy or flame-like ridges, with warm brown tones that fade into pale yellow-green. It is 0.75 inches wide, 0.75 deep and 5.5 high.

Slim, polished, and fashionable in its own sharp way.