Amulet. China, Qing Dynasty, 20th century

Amulet. China, Qing Dynasty, 20th century.
Carved white jade.
Measurements: 3.5 x 8 x 1.5 cm.
Amulet made of carved jade in the shape of two ducks joined together at the chest. Jade (nephrite) has been used in China since the Neolithic period, at first worked by abrasion and later by carving. Since ancient times it has had a value equivalent to that given in Europe to gold, silver or precious stones. Since prehistoric times it has been the burial material par excellence in China, and it also conferred status, as it was the material used by the powerful. It was therefore a material that was believed to protect during life, which is why it was used to make amulets, ornaments and ritual knives. It is also associated with the five virtues: charity, because of its lustre, which shines but does not dazzle; righteousness, because of its transparency, which reveals the veins; wisdom, because of its purity and sound; courage, because it breaks but does not bend; and justice, because its sharp edges do not hurt.