Shang–Zhou Dynasty (approximately 16th–3rd Century BCE) Hetian Jade Phoenix and Chi Dragon Linked Handle Ritual Vessel

拍品描述

Dimensions: Height 16.5 cm (6.5 in./0.54 ft), Width 12 cm (4.7 in./0.39 ft), Weight 1225 g; Shang and Zhou Dynasties (16th-3rd century BC). Condition and Provenance: Well-preserved overall, with a warm and lustrous jade texture, natural mineral deposits, and a patina developed over time. The ring and openwork chain structures are intact, and natural weathering marks run throughout the piece. Provenance: Private collection in California, USA; treasured by the collector's family for many years. Description: This exquisite ancient Hetian jade piece features a majestic phoenix and numerous dragons, incorporating various exquisite jade carving techniques, including three-dimensional carving, openwork carving, bas-relief, and ring structures. The phoenix stands tall with its head raised, beak curved, and feathers layered like clouds, with smooth and beautiful lines. The piece is full and robust, with an opening below the chest containing a cylindrical vessel, fitted with a jade phoenix lid decorated with continuous geometric patterns. With its powerful legs, layered tail feathers, and cloud patterns, the vessel outlines a majestic silhouette, perfectly blending realistic animal form with ancient symbolic decorative elements. The vessel features an extremely rare, one-piece movable jade handle, connected on both sides by rings. Each ring is meticulously carved from the same piece of jade and carefully polished, allowing for free movement and showcasing exceptional craftsmanship. Multiple dragons are carved around the handle and the vessel itself, their bodies winding, ears curled, and adorned with cloud patterns, creating a harmonious and auspicious scene. The entire vessel is decorated with intricate cloud patterns, coiling designs, and delicate line carvings. Made of Hetian jade, this piece retains its natural yellowish-brown mineral texture and, after centuries of aging, exudes a rich, ancient charm. This exquisite ritual object retains a meticulously carved recessed base, while the drilled holes and hinged sections demonstrate the superb craftsmanship of ancient Chinese jade carving. This extraordinary ritual object represents the highest level of early Chinese jade art and ritual culture.

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