CHINE, DYNASTIE QING, XVIIIÈME-XIXÈME SIÈCLE

The present jade arm rest depicts the legendary figure of Bodhidharma (Damo in Chinese) standing amidst turbulent waves, symbolizing his crossing of the ocean to transmit Chan Buddhism from India to China. In certain iconographic variations, he is portrayed standing upon a rock as he traverses the sea. Bodhidharma is traditionally credited with introducing Mahayana Buddhist teachings to China from western regions, though historical accounts differ regarding his precise origins, suggesting Central or South Asian birthplaces. According to legend, he journeyed eastward to spread the Dharma and establish the foundations of Chan Buddhism.
For a related example, see a white jade table screen from the Qianlong period, carved with a similar image of Damo riding the waves, preserved with its original zitan stand in the collection of the Palace Museum, Beijing (no. Gu00103190).