The label on the box of this beautiful Chinese jade turtle, tortoise or dragon indicates that it was made for export at the beginning of the People's Chinese Republic. We believe that it probably dates to the early 1950s. The turtle is held in high regard in the the Chinese culture. It is is symbol of longevity, power, tenacity, and a connection to the Earth, Heaven, and humanity. They are also associated with the universe, the Black Tortoise (Xuanwu) which is one of the Four Celestial Animals, and the concept of the World Turtle supporting the Earth
During this period China put a great deal of emphasis on the quality and authenticity of the the jade that they exported. Jade mining was under state control and there was a focused effort to export to Europe and the United States without losing any of the craftsmanship or quality that the Chinese were renowned for.
It was probably designed as a trinket box. It comes on a wooden stand, with the turtle in two parts, being its body and the lid if formed from the shell. It is exquisitely carved, with beautiful details. It stands cm high, not including the stand and the body of the animal is cm x cm.
The original box has the export label on it and is closed with a bone clasp, one of them is missing on the box. The box is lines with a satin material and had individual spaces for the stand, the body and the shell.
Please use the photographs as part of the description and to judge the condition for yourself.
We are happy to ship worldwide using the eBay Global Shipping Programme. Standard postage within the UK is included in the price. You are also more than welcome to collect from ourselves near Bourne in South Lincolnshire, by appointment.
Thank you for looking, and please feel free to get in touch with any questions.