Lesson 5 :The Five Famous Jade: Introducing China's Most Famous Traditional Jade Objects
Jade has been an essential part of Chinese culture for thousands of years, representing beauty, purity, and good fortune. As one of the oldest and most valuable materials in the world, it has played an essential role in China's history and culture. In this blog, we will introduce the five famous jade objects that have become an integral part of China's traditional culture.
- Bi
The Bi is a jade disk with a circular hole in the center, and it is one of the oldest and most famous jade objects in China. The Bi is believed to represent heaven, and it was often used in ancient rituals to communicate with the gods. The jade disk was also considered a symbol of power and authority and was often used as a royal emblem during the Shang and Zhou dynasties.
The Bi is typically made from white jade, and it is often carved with intricate designs and patterns, including dragons, phoenixes, and other mythical creatures. The Bi was a popular object during the Han dynasty, and it was often used as a burial object for the wealthy and powerful.
- Cong
The Cong is a cylindrical jade object with a square hole in the center, and it is often referred to as the "ancestor's tube." The Cong represents the earth and is believed to be a symbol of the connection between the living and the dead. The jade object was often used as a burial object and was placed in tombs to protect the spirits of the deceased.
The Cong was first used during the Neolithic period, and it has been found in numerous archaeological sites throughout China. The jade object is typically decorated with intricate designs and patterns, including dragons, snakes, and other animals.
- Hu
The Hu is a jade carving in the shape of a bottle, and it is often referred to as the "Jade Flask." The Hu is believed to represent the harmony between heaven and earth and is often used as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. The jade object was often given as a gift to members of the royal family and other high-ranking officials.
The Hu was popular during the Tang dynasty, and it was often decorated with intricate designs and patterns, including dragons, phoenixes, and other mythical creatures. The jade carving was also often embellished with precious stones and other materials to create an ornate and luxurious appearance.
- Yue
The Yue is a jade axe that was used as a tool during the Neolithic period, and it has since become a symbol of power and authority. The jade object was often used in ceremonies and rituals and was also used as a weapon in times of war.
The Yue is typically made from green jade, and it is often decorated with intricate designs and patterns, including dragons, birds, and other animals. The jade object was often given as a gift to high-ranking officials and members of the royal family, and it was also used as a burial object for the wealthy and powerful.
- Yu Cong
The Yu Cong is a jade object with a square or rectangular shape and a circular hole in the center. The jade object is believed to represent the connection between heaven and earth and is often used as a symbol of the unity between the spiritual and physical worlds.
The Yu Cong was popular during the Neolithic period, and it has been found in numerous archaeological sites throughout China. The jade object is typically decorated with intricate designs and patterns, including dragons, snakes, and other animals.
In conclusion, these five famous jade objects have become an integral part of China's traditional culture, and they represent the country's rich history and heritage. These objects have been passed down through the ages, and they continue to hold great significance and value in modern-day China. The intricate designs and patterns on these jade objects are