Description:

East Asia, China, upper Yellow River region of Gansu and eastern Qinghai, Neolithic Period, Qijia culture, ca. 2200 to 1600 BCE. A substantial bi disc carved from mottled brown stone, featuring a central hole and a pair of suspension holes along the upper edge. The stone boasts a beautiful coloration and texture, adding to its aesthetic appeal. These discs are sometimes described as resembling axe blades in form. A stylistically comparable example is illustrated by Jessica Rawson in her seminal work "Chinese Jade From the Neolithic to the Qing" (British Museum Press, 1995), page 113. Rawson notes: "The bi discs were particularly carefully made, with a lens-shaped cross-section. Most are slightly squared, rather than simply circular, and they often have two holes on the upper edge for suspension." While smaller discs may have been worn as ornaments, the impressive size and weight of this piece suggest it was likely intended for display or ceremonial use. Size: 10.75" L x 8.3" W (27.3 cm x 21.1 cm); 10.75" H (27.3 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection

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#190035

  • Condition: A few minor surface nicks, but otherwise intact and excellent.

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January 9, 2025 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000