Bi (disc) with incised spiral designs

DateWestern Han, 206 BC - AD 24

MediumLight green translucent nephrite jade, with calcifications

Dimensions4 3/4 × 3/16 inches (12 × 0.5 cm)

CultureChina

ClassificationsDecorative Arts

Credit LineGift of Leverett S. Woodworth, MD 1926, and Iris L. Woodworth

Terms

Decorative Arts
Glyptic Art (Jade)
with calcifications
Chinese

Object number81.049.012

Label CopyHOW WAS IT MADE? The hardness of jade makes it one of the most difficult stones to work, requiring even harder stones such as quartzite or diamonds to abrade it. That Neolithic cultures such as the Liangzhu were able to fashion such refined “carved” jade items is nothing short of amazing considering the primitive tools at their disposal. Hand saws or gut-string saws would have first been used to cut or slice the jade into a workable form, then simple awls and drills, perhaps made of bamboo, with points or disks likely made of quartzite, would have been employed to drill holes and to form intaglio and relief designs. Finally, the piece would be polished using abrasives. HOW WAS IT USED? Bi discs were placed on the chest and abdomen of the deceased in the tomb. During the Han dynasty it was believed that the soul was composed of two parts, the po soul, which would remain in the tomb, and the hun soul, which upon death would journey to heaven. The bi disc is a symbol of heaven, representing the gate through which the hun soul enters heaven. Jade, venerated since the Neolithic period, has been continuously prized throughout China's long history. Jade was thought to have magical properties and its luster, translucency and hardness were considered to embody virtues such as benevolence, integrity and courage.

Collections