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Chinese Nephrite Jade Dog Amulet
Dog amulet measuring 63.1 x 19.9 x 20.8 mm (2.4 x 0.78 x 0.81 inches), possibly from the period of the Liangzhu Culture in China (3400-2250 BCE).
Jade dog amulets were often made and worn for protection and those of the Liangzhu Culture were among the finest. This piece, made from Tremolite-Nephrite Jade, would have been sculpted using abrasive sand and string owing to the delicate nature of the jade.
Property of Mr. Alfred Correya.
Questions & Answers
When was jade first used in art in China?
- Jade was first used to make amulets and figurines by the Houli Culture of China c. 6500-c. 5500 BCE.
What are some characteristics of Chinese artworks?
- Chinese art depicts mythological, historical, and personal events and is characterized by attention to detail, mastery of a craft, and rich symbolism.
What were the earliest figures depicted in Chinese art?
- Among the earliest figures depicted in Chines art are the mythical pig-dragon, dragons, fish, tortoises, dogs, cicadas, and the cong and bi cylinders, all developed by the Liangzhu Culture c. 3400-2250 BCE.
What was jade associated with in ancient China?
- In ancient China, jade was associated with divinity, power, and protection.
