Chinese Jade Toggle

Curled creature rests with a big fan tail, pierced with little round holes.

This toggle is from China, and dates to the 19th century. It is jade. Toggles originally worn for practical use later became valued gifts and artworks, and the article notes that the netsuke of Japan, a similar counterweight for kimono sashes, originated with Chinese toggles. A few round holes pierce the shoulder area. The color is milky cream, the polish glossy, and the outline smooth and flowing. It is 1.5 inches deep and 2.25 high.

Comfortable, well-groomed and a little too relaxed to move.