Mysterious Carved Jade Ouroboros I Found

This is a picture of a strange Ouroboros I found at a local swap meet. It is interesting because it doesn't follow the traditional pattern of ouroboros which are either dragons or snakes. It appears to be an amphibian and that just doesn't fit with any of the styles from Asia or England. Perhaps it is Mayan or Incan, and the amphibian motif would seem to point in that direction. It is some kind of hard jade or nephrite stone which is very hard to carve. So I just wanted to share and get some thoughts from the forum as to possible origin.

One of my favorite symbols and philosophies.

I am envious you have something like this in your possestion.

Dunno about the authenticity of it. Could be a modern work. Either way its still cool.

reply to post by joe7pack


DUDE!! i gave you your First flag!!!

eating its own Tail..... sounds Mayan to me..

Ouroboros is a Greek symbol and philosophy.

The circle of life is what it is. It continues to grow by eating its own tail. A never ending process. It is also known as infinity.

One of my favorite songs as well.
check the YouTube page for the lyrics. Even if you don't respect the vocals the message is good.

reply to post by joe7pack


looks scythian.

peace

Originally posted by metaldemon2000
Ouroboros is a Greek symbol and philosophy.

The circle of life is what it is. It continues to grow by eating its own tail. A never ending process. It is also known as infinity.

It is also known as being the 13th symbol of the Zodiac, representing Ophiuchus.

reply to post by joe7pack


Nice piece! Looks very Saxon to me. Early Germanic maybe? Doesn't look central or South American to my eyes.

Good look finding out more - and let us know when you do.

J.

it looks like chines Jade to me.
get it valued.

As for the style I'm not sure, but I have seen many similar ones, Chinese Jade, at the gem and mineral show. It's possible the Chinese who make them are borrowing from other cultures?