Box in the shape of an archaic jade jue. Culture: China. Dimensions: H. 1 1/4 in. (3.2 cm); W. 3 5/8 in. (9.2 cm); L. 5 1/8 in. (13 cm). Date: 18th century.The shape of this box is derived from a type of jade pendant with an oval interior and a pointed end that was produced during the Han dynasty (206 B.C.-A.D. 220), called a jue. The six chi dragons prowling across the surface are more stylized than earlier examples. Their tails are depicted as ribbons, which is typical for designs from the eighteenth century. Museum: Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA.