18TH CENTURY

This fine white jade carving depicts the Daoist immortal Liu Hai accompanied by his three-legged toad, an auspicious pairing symbolizing prosperity and wealth. According to legend, the toad once dwelled in a deep pool, where it terrorized local inhabitants by emitting poisonous vapors. Liu Hai subdued the creature by luring it with a string of cash used as bait on a hook. Thereafter, the magical toad became his faithful companion and was said to carry him wherever he wished to travel.