The 24K gilt snake curiously and attentively raises its head to survey its environment. Behind it is a backdrop of a repeating wan or ‘ten thousand years’ longevity pattern. Stylised waves, rocks and clouds provide a dramatic backdrop in crimson composite resin, lending focus to the golden snake. The plaque's prominent disc and rectilinear frame allude to the Chinese concept of the earthly plane and the dome of heaven, with allusions to universal harmony.

Folk tales recount the oriental zodiac’s origins with the story of the Great Race, called by the deity the Jade Emperor to assign each year in the 12-year cycle an animal in the order they reached him by crossing a river. First past the post was the Rat, then the Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Ram, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

Includes a 4cm x 12cm engraving plate. Appropriate for personalisation in either landscape or portrait orientation, it slots comfortably into the frame’s integral channel.

About the collection
The Snake is the sixth sign of the Chinese zodiac. Those born in the Year of the Snake (1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025) are said to be mysterious, wise and protective of their loved ones.