Chinese Toggle Depicting Monkey

Pale, wide-eyed figure sits hunched with a faint smile and a ribbed back.

This toggle depicting monkey 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. Light celadon in color, the small seated figure has hunched shoulders and a head held forward. Fine rows of tiny incised marks cover the back and body. Simple dots mark the eyes and a gentle curve marks the mouth. Smooth, rounded base. It is 0.75 inches wide, 1.25 deep and 2 high.

Plainly happy, and not trying to hide it.