MING DYNASTY (1368-1644)

The buffalo symbolizes strength and diligence, and is also associated with agriculture and springtime because of its use in pulling ploughs. When paired with a child, the motif represents harmony and peaceful coexistence between man and nature. According to James C. Y. Watt in Chinese Jades From Han to Ch'ing, New York, 1980, p. 65, no. 46, the subject of the boy on the buffalo first appeared during the Southern Song dynasty. In addition to being featured in paintings, ceramics, and bronzes, the buffalo and its boy minder can also be found in jade carvings from the Yuan dynasty through to the Qing.

A similar carving dated to the Ming dynasty, is illustrated in the Min Chiu Society exhibition catalogue, Selected Treasures of Chinese Art, Hong Kong, 1991, p. 454, no. 219.