FINE Chinese Jade paper weight in the form of bamboo sprig with stem and foliate relief and flying magpie. Displayed upon a carved hardwood stand. The bamboo symbolizes moral integrity and is often particularly applied to the scholar. It is the emblem of longevity due to its durability and is the Confucian symbol of eternal friendship. This piece has a moist milky appearance and is grayish-celadon in color. The bamboo symbolizes moral integrity, and is often particularly applied to the scholar, who may bend with the wind of adversity but who will never allow his principles to be broken.
Emblem of longevity due to its durability, ability to withstand hard weather and evergreen qualities. Confucian symbol of eternal friendship. Together with the Pine and the Plum tree, it forms the "Three Friends of Winter". The Bamboo leafs droop because its "inside" (heart) is empty, thus also a symbol of the virtue of modesty. Bamboo depicted on a charm is also a pun because the Chinese word for bamboo (zhu ?) and the Chinese word for "to wish" or "to congratulate" (zhu) are pronounced the same.
Because it has a "hollow center" (kongxu ), bamboo also symbolizes "modesty" (qianxu ) because the second character for both has the same pronunciation (xu).
Bamboo was traditionally used to frighten away evil spirits, such as the mythical beast Nian, because when placed in a fire it would create a loud crackling sound similar to firecrackers.


Dimension: 31mm H x 165.1mm L (Stand): 17mm H
Weight (Jade): 191g

Over all in EXCELLENT condition.


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