Jade mountain

From China
Qing dynasty, 18th century AD

Jade Mountain

A mountain paradise carved in miniature

Reproduction of the world in miniature is a recurring theme in Chinese art. Representations of mountains in particular signified escape from China's highly ordered, bureaucratic society to the natural world. In Daoist thought, the mountains were also the home of the immortals, and so symbolized paradise and the attainment of everlasting life.

Such objects would be placed on a scholar's desk or in a cabinet, as objects of contemplation. They might be made of a variety of materials, including jade, like this example, or in bamboo root, turquoise, bronze and porcelain. Roots, rocks, gourds and other objects from the natural worldwere similarly appreciated in the scholar's studio.

This jade mountain has a scene of sages and boys in a garden with a pavilion. It is a particularly fine carving, calling to mind the monumental landscapes of Chinese painting.