The ornament composed of twelve jadeite animals in Chinese Zodiac, carved as a rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig, each of semi-translucent celadon tone to deep celadon tone with yellow to red patches. Accompanied with a wooden stand. The animals measuring approximately 90 x 55 x 40 to 65 x 43 x 38mm. This lot contains jadeite or rubies originating in Burma (also known as Myanmar) and also articles of jewellery containing such gemstones may not be imported into the U.S. With respect to items containing any other types of gemstones originating in Burma (e.g. sapphires), such items may be imported into the U.S. provided that the gemstones were mounted or incorporated into articles of jewellery outside of Burma as long as the setting is not of a temporary nature. Loose gemstones of any type originating in Burma may not be imported into the U.S. In this regard, purchaser’s inability to import any item into the U.S. or any other country as a result of these or other restrictions shall not justify a cancellation of the sale or any delay in payment.
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Chinese Zodiacs The Chinese zodiacs, also known as the twelve animal symbols and circle of animals, refer to the twelve animals – rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig – that represent the birth years of individuals in line with the twelve earthly branches under the Chinese concept of “Heavenly Stems, Earthly Branches.” According to ancient oracle inscriptions, the zodiacs were already in use during the Xia and Shang dynasties. By the Southern and Northern Dynasties, a clear sequential order for the zodiac animals had been formed. Each of the twelve animals corresponds to the twelve earthly branches. Resulting from this paradigm was the folklore of compatibility and incompatibility, gradually formed to provide explanations of how different cosmic elements interact with each other, to one’s benefit or detriment. And the zodiac animals also became recognisable icons in Chinese folk culture. As the zodiac system continues to exert increasing influence in the popular imagination over the centuries, it has become a cultural totem for the Chinese people, indicative of their different destinies. This has also contributed to a rich and continuing legacy of ceremonial rites, folk activities and works of art, each with its own unique characteristics. A classic example is the Jadeite “Chinese Zodiac” Ornament (Lot 22) presented by Tiancheng International for the upcoming auction. Delicately carved, the lot showcases twelve zodiac animal figurines that combine a touch of folk resemblance with lifelike portrayals to make it a precious work of art not to be missed by collectors.