Two Boys with Lotus Pod, Peony Branch and Dog
Artist
Chinese
DateQing Dynasty
Mediumamber
Dimensions5.5 × 5.7 × 5.5 cm (2 3/16 × 2 1/4 × 2 3/16 in.)
with base: 7.2 × 5.7 × 5.5 cm (2 13/16 × 2 1/4 × 2 3/16 in.)
with base: 7.2 × 5.7 × 5.5 cm (2 13/16 × 2 1/4 × 2 3/16 in.)
ClassificationsSculpture
Credit LineBequest of Mrs. Harry W. Goddard, in memory of Harry W. Goddard
Terms
Object number1938.38
DescriptionTwo boys carrying branch, rear figure kneeling, figure to fore astride a dog foo.Label TextTwo Boys with Lotus Pod, Peony Branch and Dog Amber; Qing dynasty (1644 - 1911), late 18th century Bequest of Mrs. Harry W. Goddard, in memory of Harry W. Goddard, 1938.38 This small sculpture of two boys, holding a peony branch and a lotus pod and playing with a small dog, express the wish to have many loyal and successful sons. Male children have historically been favored in China since they continue the worship of the family's ancestors. The dog is an emblem of fidelity and childhood protection, and the peony symbolizes affection. The inclusion of two boys signifies "double joy." Lotus pod seeds (lian zi) symbolize male offspring (zi). A boy holding a lotus pod suggests the rebus, "May you rise further and further (lian) in rank."
On View
Not on view
Female Figure Holding Lingzhi Fungus and a Branch with Ripe Peaches and Basket, Accompanied by a Boy
Chinese
late 18th century, Qing Dynasty (1644–1911)
Chinese
18th century, Qing Dynasty (1644–1911)
Chinese
about 1875, Qing Dynasty (1644-1911)
