Sterling Chinese Carved Wood Rat & Agate Pendant

This is a large vintage Chinese sterling silver pendant featuring a carved wood rat. It is a heavy hand crafted piece that is unique and rare. The rat is an abstract sculpture or figural piece and it is bezel set on the bottom of the pendant. The top has a large oval crazy lace agate (40 x 30mm) gemstone. The art carving has been practiced in China for many centuries. The rat is one of the symbolical animals corresponding to the first of the Twelve Terrestrial Branches, and is an emblem of timidity and meanness. A rat represents fertility, reproduction and wealth. It has an extra large ¾ inch circular bail on the top of the pendant. 

• Size: 4.5 x 1.5 inches
  
• Signed: STERLING on the back
• Weight: 73.3 grams