Chinese Toggle Depicting a Bat

A bat with wings spread flat and two scrolled feet curling below.

This toggle depicting a bat is from China, and dates to the 20th 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. A broad, symmetrical shape shows a small central body with ridged wings fanning to each side and an arched band overhead. Little spiral curls sit at the lower corners. The surface is creamy pale green and softly polished. It is 2.25 inches wide, 1.75 deep and 0.25 high.

Wide open, evenly balanced and altogether well mannered.