Jade
circa 1300–950 BCE
China
The British Museum
Details
Culture/Civilisation
Ancient China, Shang Dynasty
Theme
The Great River Civilisations outside India: Mesopotamia, Egypt and China
Subtheme
Ancient China: The Great Northern and Southern Rivers
Case Title
China - Mastery in making
Display Location
Coomaraswamy Hall
Findspot
China
Measurements
2 x 7 x 0.5 cm
Accession Number
1945,1017.118
Description
Jade – it is the hard stone that embodies spiritual power, purity and immortality. For 7000 years, jade has held a sacred place in Chinese culture. It needs intense labour to produce the highly prized polish and translucency. In this object, jade evokes religion, political power, natural philosophy, and luxury.
The White Tiger, connected to autumn and the West, symbolises strength and courage. Both pendants would be worn for protection.
