life is but a breath

The Jade Cat Pendant

In battle, Xiao Heng bites into a white jade cat pendant belonging to Xue Fangfei, whom he affectionately calls "Xiao Li Mao" (little leopard cat). Jade represents human virtues in traditional Chinese culture. As the Confucian saying in the Book of Rites goes: "A gentleman never parts with his jade without a reason." Jade pendants were worn on the body as a constant reminder of one's virtues. In The Double, Xiao Heng keeps A'Li's pendant close to him. It is a token of love, respect, and their shared quest for justice. According to Chinese folklore, it is good luck for a stray cat to enter the house, as "cats bring five blessings, cats enter blessed places." Similarly, jade carvings of cats were believed to bring good fortune and health to their owners. Xue Fangfei treasures her jade pendant. It was given to her by her father, who hoped it would bring her protection and a smooth and peaceful life. The cat-shaped pendant also represents Xue Fangfei herself, her ability to survive in harsh environments, and how, like a stray cat, she unexpectedly enters Xiao Heng's life and captures his heart. (x)