Pre-Qin Hetian Jade and Agate Multi-Component Ritual Pendant Set (Ancient Jade Group Pendant)

拍品描述

Dimensions and Weight: Overall assembled length approximately 70 cm (27.56 in, 2.30 ft), longest jade silkworm pendant approximately 7 cm (2.76 in, 0.23 ft), jade xi-shaped pendants and small ornaments approximately 3.8 cm (1.50 in, 0.12 ft), bead diameter approximately 1 cm (0.39 in, 0.03 ft), Weight 259 g; Spring and Autumn to Warring States Period (8th–3rd century BCE)，Condition and Provenance: The set is preserved in good overall condition, with each component retaining its original form. The surfaces display natural burial patina, mineral staining, weathering textures, and aged polish developed over centuries. The agate beads show natural banded patterns and varied coloration, while the jade pieces retain traces of ancient drilling techniques and traditional hand polishing marks. Provenance: Private Collection, New York, USA，Description: This ancient composite pendant set is formed from multiple materials and various carved components, including banded agate barrel beads, jade insect-form pendants, and jade xi-shaped ornaments. It represents the type of ceremonial jewelry worn by elite members of pre-Qin society and was later assembled into its present arrangement. The main strand consists of numerous banded agate tubular beads, carefully matched in size and shape, with ancient hand-finished surfaces and clearly visible drilled openings. The natural agate patterns display combinations of soft gray, ivory, light brown, and orange-red tones, with many beads showing whitening from mineral absorption and a rich aged surface. Suspended throughout the strand are multiple carved jade elements, including jade silkworm pendants with segmented bodies and simplified yet realistic modeling, a classic ancient jade motif symbolizing continuity and renewal. The smaller xi-shaped jade ornaments feature pierced ends and compact forms; traditionally used as cord untanglers, they later became symbolic personal ornaments associated with wisdom and status. Additional small jade animal elements and agate accessories complete the composition. The materials include ancient tremolite jade (Hetian jade) and banded agate. The craftsmanship reflects ancient techniques, including hand-drilled perforations, rotational marks inside the holes, and naturally developed burial characteristics such as mineral deposits, weathering, and orange-peel surface texture. Arranged with alternating lengths of pendants and beads, this set recreates the traditional appearance of ancient jade ornaments, known for their sound when worn in movement. Such ritual pendant sets represented social rank, combining practical use, ceremonial meaning, and artistic beauty. This multi-component jewelry ensemble provides valuable insight into pre-Qin jade culture and ancient personal adornment traditions.

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