Impressive Chinese Neolithic Liangzhu Jade Bi Disc

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Fine Antiquities, Asian, Ethno, Fine Art

By Artemis Fine Arts

May 1, 2025

Set Reminder 2025-05-01 10:00:00 2025-05-01 10:00:00 America/New_York Bidsquare Bidsquare : Fine Antiquities, Asian, Ethno, Fine Art https://www.bidsquare.com/auctions/artemis-gallery/fine-antiquities-asian-ethno-fine-art-19334
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• Lot Description
  East Asia, China, Neolithic Period, Liangzhu Culture, 3400 to 2250 BCE. Gazing upon this ancient treasure, a nephrite jade bi disc unearthed from the mists of Neolithic China's Liangzhu period, one is struck by its serene presence. The circular form, a timeless symbol of the heavens, bathed in rich, warm tones of burnished caramel swirling with the darker, grounding notes of aged mahogany. Its surface, smoothed by patient hands from a distant era, catches the light with a subtle sheen, while the central perforation seems to peer through the ages. This disc, more than a mere artifact, embodies the spiritual beliefs and artistic mastery of a civilization that flourished along the Yangtze River, a tangible link to rituals and cosmological understanding that continue to resonate across the ages. Size: 8" Diameter x 0.5" W (20.3 cm x 1.3 cm)
  
  The absence of decoration on this bi disc suggests its Neolithic origin, contrasting with later Zhou dynasty examples adorned with relief carvings of celestial deities. Traditionally employed by Liangzhu Shamans, who served as spiritual leaders and conveyors of cosmological understanding, the bi disc's circular form has led scholars to associate it with symbolic representations of both earth and heaven. Although the lack of written records from this Neolithic civilization limits definitive interpretations, archaeological evidence reveals that bi discs were interred with the deceased, likely as celestial emblems intended to accompany them into the afterlife. Furthermore, throughout history, jade artifacts have consistently denoted the elevated status and social standing of individuals.
  
  A similar Neolithic jade bi disc hammered $113,400 at Christie's New York on March 25, 2022 (lot 707, Live Auction 20594 "Important Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art").
  
  Provenance: Los Angeles, California, USA collection
  
  All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
  
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  #193582

  Condition

  One area of chipping to edge and a few small nicks to smooth surface. Otherwise, intact and excellent. Accompanied by antique, wooden box for protection.
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