Boy on a Creature with a Carp’s Body and a Dragon’s Head
1800-1899
Physical Qualities
Jade, 2 3/4 x 5 x 2 in. (7 x 12.7 x 5 cm.)
Credit Line
Frank J. and Elizabeth L. Goodnow Collection
Object Number
1942.70.462
This carving refers to a saying about “jumping the dragon falls.” Just as the carp was believed to transform into a dragon by jumping over a legendary waterfall, so a scholar transformed into an official by passing rigorous examinations required to obtain a government position.
The Baltimore Museum of Art by bequest to the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore, 1942; Goodnow Collection, Baltimore; probably acquired by Elizabeth Goodnow in China, c. 1912-1913
