A vintage sculpture, "Nine Dragons," crafted from agalmatolite, or, as it's known in China, the stone of happiness. At the center of the composition is a large dragon, Longwang, holding a pearl of wisdom in its claws, surrounded by eight smaller dragons. Together, they represent the number 9, sacred to China—it symbolizes the power of the family and the wish for prosperity for descendants. Despite the many intertwined details, the sculpture never appears chaotic—thanks to a clear hierarchy, the eye always returns to the central dragon, sensing majestic harmony and protection. China, 20th century.