Praying mantis and cicada garment hook
Datemid 10th - late 13th century
Maker
Chinese
Label TextBy the 6th century the praying mantis form dominated to such an extent that "praying mantis hook" (tanglang gou) became the common name for garment hooks. The cicada on its back alludes to a well-known proverb: "While the praying mantis catches the cicada, it does not notice the oriole coming from behind."
Object number33.1288
Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Asian Art Museum, Chinese Art: A Seattle Perspective, Dec. 22, 2007 - July 26, 2009.Credit LineEugene Fuller Memorial Collection
Dimensions3 3/8 x 3/4 x 5/8 in. (8.57 x 1.91 x 1.59 cm)
MediumNephrite
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