19th/20th century. A Chinese celadon green nephrite jade pendant depicting a strong, young, dragon guarding a very large peanut that is enveloped with a flourish of swirling vine tendrils and accented by three-petaled flowers, all on a russet jade foundation in the form of three rocks. Approximately 2 in. (5 cm.) high. Notes: It’s interesting to note that peanuts are rarely found depicted in Chinese jade carvings. The peanut (huasheng 花生) is an auspicious symbol in Chinese culture as its second character (sheng 生) means “to give birth”, thus, the peanut symbolizes a wish for many children. In this example, the dragon is an added element symbolizing its protection over the family-to-be.For a similar example of a jade piece carved with a peanut theme, please see…• Christie’s, Hong Kong, Sunday, 28 April 1996, The Imperial Sale , Lot 5, 1 ⅞ in. (5 cm.) long. For larger pictures, please see our web site. Sterling Traditions Catalog: Chinese: Jade纯品 传说 商品目录: 中国的 玉