I recently was shown this by someone. It is said to be an artefact from the Chinese Ming Dynasty. It's a heavy polished black stone of some kind. Doing my own half-baked research from Google, I think this is a carving of Emperor Yongle (reigning from 1402 to 1424 AD). However I am told that the Chinese person who gifted this to one of my acquaintances (as a symbol of appreciation for a huge favor) - Said that it's one of the greatest gifts a person can give to another... This artefact was probably in his family for many generations. Anyway, I am curious as to what does it actually symbolize? The left hand of this statue holding something in the center of his chest no doubt means some sort of a gesture. But what? Prosperity? Good fortune? Furtility? Anybody got any ideas??? Because I'm now really curious as to what it means... Chinese Ming Dynasty Artefact! ( photo / image / picture from S-H's Garden )
