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Mandarin drake

Place of OriginChina
Date1900s
DynastyQing dynasty (1644-1911)
MaterialsNephrite
DimensionsH. 2 3/4 in x W. 4 1/8 in x D. 1 in, H. 7.0 cm x W. 10.5 cm x D. 2.5 cm
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB69J5
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsJade And Stones
On View
Not on view
More Information
This drake, conforming to the shape of the jade pebble from which it is carved, turns its head toward the back. The beak touches the upright sail feathers, typical of mandarin ducks, and it has also the characteristic crest feathers. The stylized feathers are interspersed with ancient motifs, such as the various types of C curves. Square meanders decorate the tail feathers and the collar around its neck.
Like B60 J38, this drake is an archaistic piece made for the jade collectors of the early 1900s. The material, with black and white suffusions, was specially chosen to give the duck an ancient look.
Subject
  • duck
  • goose