[Collection Name]: Jade Belt Hook

[Historical Era]: Qing Dynasty

【 Size 】: Length 9.5 cm, Width 2 cm, Height 2.3 cm

White, slightly affected by dampness. The utensil is in the shape of a long, inverted hook, with a curved front and a raised back, and the hook back is shaped like a round button. The head of the hook is carved with a dragon head pattern, with open mouth and exposed teeth, protruding eyes and horns, and a coiled dragon carved on the hook body. The head is raised and the mouth is opened, and a tuft of beard is dragged to the hook body. The long tail is forked and curled, in a crawling state, and the two dragons look at each other. The decorative pattern implies the idea of a dragon teaching its children, and is a common theme with hooks.

The phrase 'Canglong Jiaozi' originated from the Three Character Classic, which states, 'Dou Yanshan had a righteous plan. He taught five sons, and his reputation was well-known.' Dou Yanshan was initially unkind to wealth and used his power to suppress poverty, resulting in a lack of children. However, he later regretted his actions and benefited others, forming good relationships. His wife gave birth to five children in succession. Yan Shan's example and words have been passed down for more than ten years, cultivating their moral cultivation. The five sons successively passed the imperial examination and were known as the Dou's Five Dragons at that time. The phrase 'Canglong Teaches His Son' uses the Canglong as a metaphor for Dou Yanshan, emphasizing the importance of parents' words and deeds as a guide.