Auspicious Figure “tongzi”, China, Late Qing Dynasty

Auspicious “Tongzi” Figure. A youthful figure carved in polished agate, depicting a young porter whose head rests on his shoulder against a large pomegranate. His raised hand, with finely incised fingers, supports this fruit, rich in symbolism. His other hand holds a lingzhi (a type of mulberry) rendered with a delicately checkered texture. Behind him, a large circular parasol, engraved with fine rays radiating from a central hub, resembling a scholar's round parasol (youzhisan), leans against the figure. Flowing garments and engraved cloud motifs enhanced with pigments complete the composition. Carved agate, with highlights of colored pigments. China, late Qing dynasty (19th century). Dimensions 8 × 7.3 × 4 cm * Shipping costs upon request. "The tongzi embody youth and the promise of renewal. The pomegranate expresses abundance and offspring, the lingzhi longevity, and the parasol—a round scholar's umbrella (youzhisan)—symbolizes protection and harmony. Bringing together these auspicious attributes, this sculpture was intended to attract prosperity, longevity, and goodwill into the home."