Yellow Jade Horse

The Yellow Jade Horse is one of the most beloved treasures housed at the Confucius Museum in Qufu, Shandong. Discovered in 1978 at the Site of the Capital of the State of Lu, this exquisite jade carving dates to the late Warring States period (475-221 BC), having lain beneath the earth for over 2,200 years.

Carved from warm yellowish-green jade, the piece measures a mere 5.8 centimeters in length, 1.7 cm in width, and 5.7 cm in height, resting on a small rectangular base of 2.4 cm by 1.65 cm.

Despite its diminutive size, the sculptor employed a masterful combination of incised lines and low relief to render the horse's eyes, mouth, nostrils, ears, mane, and tail with remarkable precision. The jade's natural brownish inclusions were ingeniously incorporated through the skillful use of color, mimicking the dappled coat of a real horse.

What makes this piece particularly endearing is its expression — a subtle, upturned curve of the mouth carved into the jade gives the horse an unmistakable smile. This charming feature has earned it the nickname "the Warring States Labubu" among younger visitors and widespread attention on social media.

The horse's composed, upright stance — head held high and standing firmly on all fours — has been interpreted as embodying the Confucian ideal of resilience and self-improvement, echoing the wisdom of The Book of Changes: "The movement of heaven is full of power. Thus, the superior man makes himself strong and untiring".

Now a beloved icon of the Confucius Museum, the Yellow Jade Horse's distinctive smiling image has inspired a popular line of creative merchandise.

The Warring States Yellow Jade Horse, a treasured piece at the Confucius Museum, is renowned for its lifelike smile and masterful craftsmanship. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]