清中期　玉十二生肖俑|Twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac

Art Historical Context

Nestled in the Asian Art galleries of the Metropolitan Museum of, this exquisite set of twelve nephrite jade figurines depicts the animals of the Chinese zodiac—, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig. Crafted during China's Qing dynasty (1644–1911), the 18th–19th, each petite sculpture stands about 2¼ inches tall and 1¾ inches wide, showcasing the era's mastery of jade carving. Nephrite jade, revered in Chinese culture for its luminous green hue, toughness, and symbolic ties to purity and immortality, was a favored medium for imperial workshops. Qing artisans employed intricate techniques like incising and polishing to capture each animal's distinctive features and dynamic poses, from the alert rat to the majestic dragon. These zodiac guardians reflect the zodiac's profound role in Chinese astrology, calendars, and folklore, where animals govern personality traits and fortunes. Originally a gift to the Met from collector Heber R. Bishop in 1902, this ensemble likely served as scholarly desk ornaments or auspicious talismans. Their delicate scale and lifelike vitality highlight jade's prestige, inviting visitors to ponder the enduring harmony of nature and cosmology in Qing artistry.