Artwork Page for Pair of Jade Plaques

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Pair of Jade Plaques

475–221 BCE

China, Henan province, Eastern Zhou dynasty (770–256 BCE), Warring States period

(475–221 BCE)
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Medium
nephrite
Measurements
Part 1: 22.5 x 8.9 cm (8 7/8 x 3 1/2 in.); Part 2: 20.8 x 8.7 cm (8 3/16 x 3 7/16 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund and the John L. Severance Fund 1991.78
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Description

This beautiful pair of late Eastern Zhou openwork jade plaques illustrate a level of creativity and technical achievement that was unequaled before or since. Taking the shape of a pair of fantastic creatures, they are at once tiger-like, rhino-like, and dragon-like. Their strong silhouettes are marked with shallow relief bands, and their subtly swelling embellished surfaces are finished to the same degree on both sides.
A pair of plaques depicts mythical creatures carved from nephrite jade, a warm tan stone with dark brown and green discolorations. In profile facing our right, they have arched backs and downward-tilted heads. Small, raised circular bumps cover their bodies, while intricate swirling patterns are incised on the shoulders and hindquarters. The upper plaque is fragmented on our left, revealing a rough edge where the tail has chipped away.

Pair of Jade Plaques

475–221 BCE

China, Henan province, Eastern Zhou dynasty (770–256 BCE), Warring States period (475–221 BCE)

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