1-234-035 - The Museum of East Asian Art/Heritage Images

Jade dragon-headed carp rising from waves, Ming dynasty, China, probably 16th century. A jade pebble of a leaping carp amid waves, its head almost turned into a dragon. The jade is of fine white colour but has extensive brown degradation. The waves and prominent back are nicely carved. The overall form is curved like a C. The carp turning into a dragon as it goes up the Longmen falls was symbolic of success in the Imperial examinations.