Date: Yuan dynasty (AD 1271-1368)

Dimensions: 6.2 x 4.4 x 2.6 cm

Unearthed in 1994 from the underground relic-chamber of the Yuanying Pagoda in Songjiang, Shanghai

Shanghai Museum

• Object Type：
  • OTHERS
• Tag：
  • crystal hare yuan yuanying pagoda

The crystal hare sits in the loaf position, tucking its short tail in and resting its long ears on the back, with a hole pierced through. Incised carving is applied to outline the figure, with ornamentally finer parallel cuts to shape its hairs. Inspired by the Tang and Song artistic style, this hare looks very adorable and stocky, and is probably searching for food.

The tame and tender hare has been viewed as a lucky animal since ancient times. It is also a symbol of purity, agility, kindness and vitality, as hinted in many folktales.

【Special Exhibition】 Ode to Spring: Special Exhibition Celebrating the Year of the Rabbit