East Asia, China, Shang Dynasty, ca. 16th to 11th century BCE. A beautiful pendant in the form of an elongated celt, hand-carved from nephrite of a dark green-brown hue. The rectangular pendant tapers slightly towards the biconically-drilled suspension hole, and the bottom bears two pointed corners and an unsharpened edge. A trio of horizontal grooves across the midsection makes for a repeating incised curvilinear motif interspersed with bands of thin, concentric striations, and beneath is an elaborate bird of paradise with a flowing tail, petite legs, and a wispy crest flowing from atop the head. The bird of paradise is highly symbolic of freedom, inner peace, and happiness, and the inclusion of this imagery suggests this was a pendant of prosperity. A fabulous example of Shang Dynasty artistry replete with complex iconography and intricate detailing. Lucite display stand for photography purposes only. Size: 1.875" W x 7.1" H (4.8 cm x 18 cm).
Yu, the Chinese word for jade/nephrite, is also an idea - of a steadfastness and reliability, mirrored in the abrasion techniques required to make these intricate works of art. Yu is also not bound by the mineralogical definition of jade - over the millennia that it has been carved in China, the people have had varying access to sources of jade and nephrite - but is rather a wider term for hard stone. From the Neolithic period forward, the Chinese buried jade with the dead, often broken or placed ceremonially on the body; they also used it in life for performing rituals.
Provenance: ex-Leonard Lyle Dees collection, Topeka, Kansas, USA, acquired between 1950 and 1970
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#148523
Condition
Minor abrasions and nicks to both sides and peripheries, with light softening to some finer details, otherwise intact and excellent. Light earthen deposits within some recessed areas, and iconography is still visible and clear. Incredibly smooth surface texture throughout.