This lively carving captures a beloved Chinese visual pun: “马上封侯”—literally “to be granted the rank of marquis immediately.” The phrase is expressed through imagery: a horse (马) carrying a monkey (猴) upon its back. In Chinese, the words for “monkey” and “marquis” share the same pronunciation (hóu), creating a powerful auspicious rebus that symbolizes swift promotion, advancement, and the attainment of high rank.
The pendant is carved from milky white nephrite pebble jade, animated with streaks of yellowish-brown skin that were intentionally retained to affirm its 籽料 heritage. These natural tones enliven the carving, giving the horse dynamic movement while highlighting the monkey’s playful presence perched behind.
Historically, such motifs were cherished by scholars and officials as talismans of career success and imperial recognition. Today, the symbolism remains equally potent—representing rapid achievement, opportunity, and upward momentum.
Worn as a pendant or mounted with tassel as a hand ornament, this piece carries a cheerful yet powerful blessing: the wish that fortune arrives swiftly, without delay.
Approximate Size: 63mm x 29mm x 20mm
Approximate Weight: 53g
Nephrite essential information: we are aware that in the trade many people sell their nephrites coated or bathed in mineral oils that allows nephrites, especially pebble materials, to appear glossy and radiantly smooth, but over here at Kangiiten, we offer the nephrites in its original, raw formats, to which you may observe that the surface can be dry, or colour being less intense than usual. The aim is to allow you to wear it and allow it to respond to human contact, warmth, to which it will quickly develop a delightful natural patina, in the process of 人养玉. So fret not if the nephrite surfaces appear dry upon receipt, we just do not want to coat or bath our jades in mineral oils.
