Chinese Toggle Depicting Mythological Lion with Ruyi

A drowsy beast with a tiny cub riding along its back.

This toggle depicting mythological lion with ruyi is from China. 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. The animal rests low on its belly with a wide, scowling face carved in deep relief. A smaller creature curls against its side. The stone is a warm cream with a slightly granular, worn polish and rounded contours. It is 2 inches wide, 2.25 deep and 1 high.

Fierce face, soft heart, and a passenger who knows it.