Goose carrying a stalk of grain

This ivory–colored jade was specially chosen for its antique look. The goose swims on finely incised waves, which form a series of S curves beneath its body, unlike the whirlpool-type waves found on B60 J247. It carries a stalk of rice with two full heads of grain, an unusual phenomenon. Known as jiahe or excellent grain, it is a symbol for an abundant harvest.

The piece is beautifully designed and executed. The eyes are well done, and the feathers depicted with care. A long leaf falls gracefully from the stalk below the wing, while another curls around the goose's head. The two bunches of grain, with every grain clearly defined, are arranged so that one falls on either side of the body.

In ancient China, a duck was the proper gift to give to a candidate on his way to take the civil service examination in the capital, because it was a pun for achieving first place in the exam. A jade duck carrying a stalk of grass (or rush) carries the same meaning. This piece is definitely a goose and not a duck, and the grass has become a stalk of rice representing a bumper crop. This mix-up in iconography confirms the later dating.