This Chinese brush washer has been finely carved in the shape of a frog. The details of the animal have been masterfully incised resulting in an abstract but very clear depiction of the frog. In Chinese culture, the frog symbolises prosperity. The one represented here is the Jin Chan, also called Ch’an Chu, the three-legged money frog, which is a popular motif in China and it is believed to attract or protect its owner's wealth. This mythical creature is said to manifest itself during the full moon, near houses or businesses that will soon receive wealth-related good news. Because the statue of this frog symbolises the flow of money, it is believed that it should not be positioned facing the main door (outwards). However, in Chinese culture, frogs are not only a sign of prosperity, but they are also a symbol of protection.

Rock crystal is traditionally valued for its translucent quality as a symbol of purity, and is referred to as shuijing, literally meaning ‘water essence’.