This nephrite jade carving of a resting Mandarin duck dates to the Ming Dynasty or earlier.

It is a pale celadon to yellow jade altered to brown overall.

It appears to have been buried for an extended period of time, based on the level of alteration or oxidation.

It may actually date to the Song Dynasty, but we are dating it as Ming to be conservative.

It measures 80 mm x 45mm x 12 mm in depth.

It is in very good condition with the exception of a slight loss to one wing tip, which appears to have happened ages ago because it shows wear and toning consistent with the rest of the carving.

The shape of the tail is unusual in that it looks like a sea monster . Without its pointed beak, it could be mistaken for a dragon or a kylin.