A JADE PENDANT WITH TAOTIE AND DRAGON, LATE QING China, end of 19th, beginning 20th century. An exceptionally finely crafted decorative pendant with large taotie masks. These horned, grimly expressive mystical creatures serve to keep away demons. Above the wide-mouthed masks with fangs are kui dragons, an archaic, legless form. Between the dragons is an eyelet. This amulet jade has slight calcification and a white color to its translucence. Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: From an important Austrian collection. Dated and verified by Professor Filippo Salviati, Sapienza University of Rome. Dimensions: Height 5.3 cm.