One of a Pair of Water Buffalo
Culture
Chinese
Date18th century, Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
Mediumnephrite
Dimensionsapproximately: 26.7 x 23.5 cm (10 1/2 x 9 1/4 in.)
ClassificationsJades
Credit LineGift of John and Maria Dirlam
Terms
Object number2006.612.2
DescriptionGreen/rust/beige stone. Maybe jade, jasper or agate.Label TextIn early times water buffalo were sacrificed in religious ceremonies. Bovine masks were also depicted on ancient bronzes and jades. Honored for its work pulling the plows in the rice fields, the buffalo later became a symbol for a fertile spring and abundant year. The animal is also associated with Taoism since its legendary founder, Laozi (7th century), toward the end of his life, is said to have left China riding westwards on a water buffalo. As a Taoist emblem the strong and docile water buffalo symbolizes a rustic, vagabond life in harmony with nature and free of worldly concerns. Shown lying dowm, these jade buffalo represent the world at peace.ProvenanceJohn and Maria Dirlam, Worcester, MA
On View
On view
Chinese
early 18th century, Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
Chinese
Qianlong period (1736–1795) of the Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
