Qing Dynasty, Squirrel and Grapes Jadeite Pendant (ca. 1775 - 1850)

Description

十九世纪末，清代，网纹玉佩，描绘一只松鼠坐在茂盛的葡萄、茛苕和芙蓉藤蔓之间。作品极其细致，由优秀艺术家雕刻而成；藤蔓有的部分是玉雕而成，细如发丝。松鼠造型精美，尾巴毛茸茸的，面部细节生动。

A late 19th century, Qing Dynasty, reticulated, carved jadeite pendant depicting a squirrel clambering across leafy vines of grapes, acanthus, and hibiscus. This is highly detailed and was carved by an artist with great skill; there are sections of the vine where the jade has been carved to a hairs' breadth. The squirrel, songshu, is carved in miniature with details to its bushy tail and lively features.

Symbolism

Squirrels are derived and considered part of, the rat family in the Chinese zodiac, a family focused creature who is protective of offspring and their success thereon. This symbolism is accented by grape vines which are representative of virility and fertility; always appearing in bunches and with many seeds. The combination of grapes and squirrels thereby forms a powerful symbol that emphasises progeny and offspring.

The importance of the acanthus vines and a single hibiscus flower are also not to be forgotten. The hibiscus is a popular flower in Chinese traditions which celebrates the success of the wearer, while also remembering the potential to fall. The dual symbolism both congratulates, and warns the wearer against taking achieved success for granted. 

The acanthus vine is no less important as a symbol as it represents good health, longevity (supported by the character for longevity on the bale), rebirth, and healing. It has been a popularised symbol and motif since as early as the Ming dynasty and is featured on many jades, in poems, and as an overarching symbol in artistic expressions.

Together, these symbols combine to create a potent, and wearable piece of jewellery that wishes the wearer success, a healthy and happy family, and a long, and happy life. By Chinese standards, a princely (princess-ely gift).

History

This style of pendant, squirrel and grape, was popularised in the 18th century during the reign of the Qianlong emperor, previously named Hongli (the names of emperor's were ritually abandoned upon ascending to their reigns). The Qianlong reign saw a peak in artistic expression that was not to be seen or replicated in the periods that were to follow. It would, however, serve as an important influence on artists from proceeding periods.

While seeing the use of jadeite on a Qing piece is more unusual, it is still something found quite often. Contrary to what one might think, jadeite has been found in China since as early as the 13th century:

Although jadeite had reportedly trickled into China from Burma since the 13th century (and reputedly even earlier), it did not make its mark for another 500 years. As trade began to increase between China and Burma in the 1780s, jadeite started to appear in the imperial lapidaries of China, possibly as a tribute to the Chinese emperor. (Keverne, Roger, Jade, pg. 22-23, 1991

What all this tells us is that this piece could have potentially been carved during the Qianlong era, or just after. The use of traditional Taoist symbols such as acanthus and hibiscus paired with a particularly popular class and style of carvings from the Qianlong would strongly suggest this. At latest, this will have been carved in the 19th century in keeping with an artistic tradition borrowed from the Qianlong dynasty. 

For a similar example that sold in 2023 (Sothebys) please see 'An openwork white jade 'squirrel and grape' pendant, Qing dynasty | 清 白玉鏤雕松鼠葡萄紋珮' although note that the material (nephrite) and period make the style quite different as an earlier example. 

Another similar example sold by Sothebys in 2021 is A white and russet jade openwork 'squirrel and grapes' pendant, Qing dynasty, 18th century | 清十八世紀 白玉鏤雕松鼠葡萄紋珮. As per the other example referenced, it is from an earlier period and nephrite, as oppose to jadeite. 

Gemstone

The jadeite is a uniform amber / red shade to the obverse with a pale celadon shade presenting on the reverse. An unusual colour and well worked by the artist to depict both animal and fruit in the round.

Set with a 1970's 14 karat bale with a bamboo patinated surround presenting the traditional character for longevity.