Object Description
A finely modelled Han Dynasty moulded clay paperweight in the shape of a naturalistically rendered frog, shown recumbent. The paperweight’s surface displays traces of the original white slip.
The invention of paper has been attributed to the Han Dynasty, supposedly realised by a court official and presented to the emperor. Paper had major impact on the dissemination of Han literary and artistic culture. Zoomorphic paperweights made in clay, stone and bronze were abundantly produced in the Han Dynasty, as important study tools used by ancient Chinese scholars.
The frog was considered a sign of prosperity, of successful business dealings. Folklore tales
It is one of the five noxious creatures with geckos; scorpions; snakes and centipedes. On the more positive side, the similar sounding 娃 wá is a term for a baby, so can symbolize a wish for children.
A toad is said to be the companion of 刘海 Liú Hǎi the god of wealth, and because of this association is often symbolizes a wish for riches.
Date: Circa 206 BC- 220 AD
Period: Han Dynasty