Chinese Masterpieces

Han & Archaic Jade Carvings

Recumbent Mythical Animal Sculpture in Celadon Jade: An Exquisite Artifact from the Han Dynasty

This exquisite Chinese fine art jade celadon statue depicts a reclining mythical creature, with one leg elegantly raised. The craftsmanship is exceptional, showcasing meticulous detailing in the representation of the creature's musculature, skin folds, and backbone. This unique piece originates from the Han Dynasty, which spans from 206 BC to 220 AD. The jade material exhibits a stunning celadon hue, accented by white and black speckled inclusions, while the specific carving style further corroborates its historical provenance. It is noteworthy that such a statue would have been a possession of the affluent class, as jade was considered more precious than gold during this era. The dimensions of the statue are approximately 4 inches in length.

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Eastern Zhou Dynasty Warring States Period: Chinese Jade Double Dragon Huang Plaque/Pendant

Joseph.Sharon@chinesemasterpieces.com

This remarkable piece of archaic jade from the Warring States period, situated within the Eastern Zhou Dynasty, exemplifies exceptional craftsmanship. The jade pendant, known as a Huang, is artistically shaped in an arc and features two intricately carved dragon heads, adorned with a textured grain pattern interspersed with openwork clouds. The material is a translucent celadon jade exhibiting inclusions that have imparted a brownish hue to much of the pendant, alongside localized areas of calcification. The carvings showcase unparalleled finesse, unmistakably marking it as an authentic artifact from this historical era. The delicate lines appear as though meticulously excavated in minute sections—an intricate technique observable only in the finest jade pieces of the Eastern Zhou Dynasty. Such precision necessitates the use of a quality loupe for proper examination. The precise nature of the tools employed in the creation of this piece remains unknown, leading to ongoing speculation; some theorize the use of diamond-tipped instruments akin to knives. Given that jade possesses a hardness comparable to steel, achieving such intricate detail without risking chipping, cracking, or fracturing the stone presents a conundrum that has intrigued scholars dedicated to the study of jade carvings. It is noteworthy that such craftsmanship is not reflected in any other periods throughout China's historical timeline. The Huang, crafted during the Warring States period (approximately 476 BC to 221 BC), measures approximately 9.25 inches in length and is equipped with a small conical pierced hole for suspension.

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Jade Double Dragon Huang Plaque/Pendant from the Warring States Period of the Eastern Zhou Dynasty

Joseph.Sharon@chinesemasterpieces.com

This exceptional jade double dragon Huang pendant, originating from the Warring States period of the Eastern Zhou Dynasty, exemplifies the artistry of that era. Characterized by its arc shape, this pendant features dual dragon heads and is intricately adorned with a grain pattern that overlays openwork clouds. The material used is a translucent celadon jade exhibiting brownish russet inclusions, which impart a predominantly brownish hue to much of the piece. The craftsmanship displayed in this carving is remarkable, signifying its authenticity as a period piece. The finely detailed lines appear to have been meticulously excavated in diminutive sections, a technique that is rarely observed outside of the most exquisite jade artifacts from the Eastern Zhou Dynasty. To fully appreciate the intricacies of the work, one must employ a jeweler's loupe, as the details are subtle and finely executed. The method by which artisans achieved such precision remains enigmatic; theories suggest the possible use of diamond-tipped tools, akin to a knife. Jade possesses a hardness comparable to steel, making the removal of tiny fragments an astounding feat without the risk of chipping, cracking, or fracturing this sizable, delicate stone under the requisite pressure. This mystery has perplexed scholars throughout the study of jade carvings, especially considering the absence of similar techniques across other historical periods in China. Dating from the Warring States period (476 BC – 221 BC), this Huang pendant measures approximately 9 1/8 inches in length and features a small conical pierced hole at the apex for suspension.

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Eastern Zhou Dynasty Warring States Period Grayish-White Chinese Jade Pendant Featuring Dragon and Phoenix Motifs

Joseph.Sharon@chinesemasterpieces.com

Warring States Period, Eastern Zhou Dynasty: This pendant, featuring a dragon and phoenix motif crafted from grayish-white jade, displays significant white and brown inclusions, which corroborate its historical authenticity. The artifact measures approximately 6 1/4 inches in length.

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Eastern Zhou Dynasty Chinese Jade Dragon Ribbon Pendant from the Warring States Period

Joseph.Sharon@chinesemasterpieces.com

This exquisite, intricately carved stylized grayish jade pendant originates from the Eastern Zhou Dynasty, specifically the Warring States period, dated between 475 BC and 221 BC. The jade displays significant brownish inclusions and areas of calcification, characteristics that substantiate its historical provenance. Its surface is adorned with a distinct grain pattern, while the dragon's head is artfully rendered in a rear-facing position, complemented by a ribbon-like form and a pierced hole for suspension. The pendant measures approximately 7.5 inches in length.

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Stylized Dragon Pendant Crafted from White Chinese Jade: A Reflection of the Warring States Period

Joseph.Sharon@chinesemasterpieces.com

This pendant, originating from the Warring States period, is a finely crafted artifact made of white jade and features a stylized dragon design. The extensive brown inclusions present in the stone, along with the distinctive carving style, serve as indicators of its historical authenticity. The pendant measures approximately 6 3/4 inches in length.

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Large Pendant of Grayish White Chinese Jade Depicting a Dragon, Phoenix, and Dancer from the Warring States

Joseph.Sharon@chinesemasterpieces.com

Warring States Grayish White Jade Pendant featuring Dragon, Phoenix, and Dancer Motifs This substantial pendant exhibits significant clouding and calcification, characteristic of its historical provenance. The carving style further substantiates its age. The item measures approximately 11.5 inches in length.

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Warring States Period Large Four-Dragon Huang Pendant in Pale Celadon Chinese Jade

Joseph.Sharon@chinesemasterpieces.com

This exquisite large pale celadon jade pendant features four intricately carved dragons, characteristic of the Warring States period. The piece exhibits natural clouding and areas of decay, indicative of its authenticity and historical significance. The meticulous craftsmanship of the carving style serves to confirm its age. The pendant measures approximately 9 inches in length.

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Eastern Zhou Dynasty Chinese Jade Pale Celadon Vessel in the Form of a Stylized Elephant from the Warring States Era

Joseph.Sharon@chinesemasterpieces.com

This exceptional Eastern Zhou pale celadon elephant vessel is a notable artifact from the period. It is masterfully carved, showcasing intricate and highly stylized details characteristic of the Eastern Zhou era. The lid is adorned with a finial in the form of a mythical bird. The translucent pale celadon jade features extensive brownish veining and inclusions, which further attest to its historical provenance. The vessel measures approximately 7 inches in length.

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Four Dragon Pendant: Exquisite Celadon Jade from the Han Dynasty

Joseph.Sharon@chinesemasterpieces.com

Chinese Antique Celadon Jade Pendant from the Han Dynasty featuring Four Dragons. This intricately designed pendant takes the form of a Bi disc, showcasing three dragons on one side, skillfully depicted as emerging from the earth, while the opposing side features a finely detailed grain pattern and a winged dragon encircling the disc. The jade material exhibits an exquisite translucent celadon hue, adorned with notable inclusions of brown, russet, and white, which further authenticate its historical significance. The craftsmanship reflects the pendant's provenance, indicative of its creation during the Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD). Notably, jade held greater value than gold during this period and was regarded as a symbol of elite status. This piece measures 5 7/8 inches in height, signifying its importance and role as a decorative item for the affluent ruling class of the time.

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Han Dynasty Celadon Jade Pendant featuring Dragon and Phoenix Motifs

Joseph.Sharon@chinesemasterpieces.com

The pendant, crafted in the style characteristic of the Han Dynasty, features stylized depictions of a dragon and phoenix in celadon jade. Notably, it exhibits distinctive brown and white inclusions, which serve to confirm its antiquity. The dimensions of this remarkable piece are approximately 4 7/8 inches in length.

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Han Dynasty Exquisitely Crafted White Jade Pendant Featuring Dragon and Phoenix Motifs with Five Rings

Joseph.Sharon@chinesemasterpieces.com

The Han Dynasty presents an intricately designed white jade pendant featuring a dragon and phoenix motif, characterized by heavily stylized artistry. This piece exhibits notable calcified brownish inclusions, along with greenish hues resulting from its burial alongside bronze artifacts. The carving style further attests to its historical significance. The pendant measures approximately 6 5/8 inches when closed and 17 1/2 inches when fully opened.

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Han Dynasty Celadon Jade Pendant Featuring Intricate Dragon and Phoenix Motifs

Joseph.Sharon@chinesemasterpieces.com

This pendant, crafted during the Han Dynasty, features an intricately stylized design depicting a dragon and phoenix in celadon jade, characterized by distinct brown inclusions. The carving techniques utilized in its creation further substantiate its historical provenance. The dimensions of the piece are approximately 5 1/2 inches in length.

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I began my collection in the 1970s, and in the 1990s, I focused on acquiring an exceptional array of artworks from private Chinese sources. These sources faced severe persecution for possessing collections that were ancestral heirlooms, predating the Communist era. Among my holdings is the Official Commissioned Imperial Royal Ru Kiln Collection, originating from the collection of Emperor Huizong of the Northern Song Dynasty.

This collection features unique pieces that stand unparalleled in significance, as many of these forms have been previously unseen. The condition of these works is pristine; they are certified 100% authentic, with verifiable characteristics including cuprite and malachite corrosion on the fire-gilded copper bands, which took approximately 900 years to develop. This corrosion is readily observable with the naked eye, as is the crushed agate within the glaze, which can be examined with a 20x loupe. Despite the proliferation of Ru ware across the internet, numerous auction houses continue to erroneously classify these original pieces as fakes, perpetuating misinformation. It is essential to note that only Commissioned Official Royal Imperial Ru wares are genuinely rare. These pieces are not widely available online, and no Royal Imperial Ru wares have ever been offered at auctions. Any skepticism about the authenticity of these wares can be dispelled by recognizing that it would be impossible for any contemporary kiln in China to replicate such masterpieces. Throughout history, the only kiln capable of producing works of this caliber was the Royal Ru Kiln during the Northern Song Dynasty under Emperor Huizong. The second commissioned wares, characterized by unglazed foot rings that were fired flat in the kiln, include the featured Cong vase, which showcases fire-gilded copper bands exhibiting the aforementioned corrosion. The authenticity of these pieces is evident in their cuprite and malachite corrosion, which is readily visible, as well as the crushed agate in the glaze, identifiable with a 20x loupe. Expertise is not a prerequisite for recognizing these facts. It is important to highlight that all second commissioned wares lack markings and possess an off-white biscuit that turns brownish upon firing. These wares are distinguished by their luxurious, smooth glaze, free from crackle, and display unique features such as fire-gilded copper bands. In my estimation, these second commissioned wares represent the finest celadon wares, and the most significant wares in China’s historical legacy. Emperor Huizong of the Northern Song Dynasty reigned from 1082 to 1135.

Examine and Review the Information Provided Below Thoroughly

The following series of close-up photographs presents the Cuprite and Malachite corrosion observed on the RU WARE copper fire-gilded bands. It is important to note that fire gilding, a process involving the application of gold and mercury, has not been employed since the mid-19th century due to its associated health risks. The characteristic patina visible on these bands has developed over approximately 900 years, rendering it virtually impossible to replicate artificially (referenced from David Scott's "Copper and Bronze in Art," Chapter 3, page 106). The natural progression from metal to cuprite and subsequently to malachite is complex and challenging to reproduce in a laboratory setting. Indeed, most methodologies for generating artificial green patinas on copper alloys, such as those catalogued by Hughes and Rowe (1982), do not yield malachite formation over a cuprite substrate. As such, the identification of this specific type of corrosion, corroborated by analytical and metallographic investigations, serves as a strong indicator of an artifact's authenticity. Additionally, microscopic images reveal the presence of minute reflective particles of crushed agate incorporated into the RU WARE glaze. Such reflections can also be discerned with a 20x loupe, with further evidence available in the microscopic photographs adjacent to each artifact image. Notably, only the Imperial Ru Wares that were officially commissioned feature crushed agate in their glaze. Pieces sold by auction houses typically do not exhibit this characteristic, as agate was not utilized in merchant wares. The finest merchant wares, equipped with fire-gilded copper bands, were presented as tributes to the Emperor. Meanwhile, flawed merchant wares were sold at reduced prices to the general populace, and those with severe defects were often destroyed. During the reign of Emperor Huizong, significant efforts were made to establish the Ru Kiln as a premier production facility for his personal commissions and those of his court, effectively designating it as the Official Royal Kiln. He specifically mandated the inclusion of rare blue agate in the glazes of all commissioned wares. These official pieces are generally larger and exhibit distinctive styles, forms, and glazes, many of which remain unparalleled in contemporary collections. Archaeological findings have confirmed the location of the Ru Kiln associated with merchant wares predating Emperor Huizong's commissions; however, the site of the Official Royal Ru Kiln has yet to be located.

Following the incursion of the Jin Army into the Northern Song Dynasty, it is believed that many Imperial Royal Kiln artisans migrated southward, with approximately half joining the Imperial Guan Kilns and the other half working at the Longquan Kiln. This migration contributes to the stylistic similarities observed between the renowned second commissioned Royal Ru Kiln wares and those produced at Longquan. Notably, however, Longquan wares lack the crushed agate incorporation that characterizes the official Ru Wares. ppjrs

Chinese Masterpieces

Han & Archaic Jade Carvings

Recumbent Mythical Animal Sculpture in Celadon Jade: An Exquisite Artifact from the Han Dynasty

Eastern Zhou Dynasty Warring States Period: Chinese Jade Double Dragon Huang Plaque/Pendant

Jade Double Dragon Huang Plaque/Pendant from the Warring States Period of the Eastern Zhou Dynasty

Eastern Zhou Dynasty Warring States Period Grayish-White Chinese Jade Pendant Featuring Dragon and Phoenix Motifs﻿

Eastern Zhou Dynasty Chinese Jade Dragon Ribbon Pendant from the Warring States Period

Stylized Dragon Pendant Crafted from White Chinese Jade: A Reflection of the Warring States Period

Large Pendant of Grayish White Chinese Jade Depicting a Dragon, Phoenix, and Dancer from the Warring States

Warring States Period Large Four-Dragon Huang Pendant in Pale Celadon Chinese Jade

Eastern Zhou Dynasty Chinese Jade Pale Celadon Vessel in the Form of a Stylized Elephant from the Warring States Era

Four Dragon Pendant: Exquisite Celadon Jade from the Han Dynasty

Han Dynasty Celadon Jade Pendant featuring Dragon and Phoenix Motifs

Han Dynasty Exquisitely Crafted White Jade Pendant Featuring Dragon and Phoenix Motifs with Five Rings

Han Dynasty Celadon Jade Pendant Featuring Intricate Dragon and Phoenix Motifs

Han Dynasty Exquisite White Chinese Jade Dragon and Phoenix

Five-Ring Pendant

Han Dynasty Expertly Designed Grayish-White Chinese Jade Scepter Ornament

Highly Stylized Recumbent White Onion Chinese Jade Horse from the Han Dynasty

Han Dynasty-Style Jade Turtle and Crane Sculpture in Spinach Green

Han Dynasty Exquisite Kneeling White Chinese Jade Mythical Creature Sculpture

Exquisite Jade Horse Pendant from the Han Dynasty, China

The Inaugural Ceramics Commissioned by the Emperor in Chinese History: Guaranteed 100% Authenticity from the Northern Song Dynasty's Official Imperial Royal Ru Kiln Porcelain Collection – An Unmatched Provenance of Authenticity.

Examine and Review the Information Provided Below Thoroughly

2nd Commissioned Official Royal Imperial Ru Royal Kiln Cong Vase /Tiny rare blue agate chips in glaze / Botryoidal Malachite on copper gilded bands

2nd Commissioned Official Royal Imperial Ru Royal Kiln Cong Vase /Tiny rare blue agate chips in glaze / Botryoidal Malachite on copper gilded bands

2nd Commissioned Official Royal Imperial Ru Royal Kiln Cong Vase /Tiny rare blue agate chips in glaze / Botryoidal Malachite on copper gilded bands

2nd Commissioned Official Royal Imperial Ru Royal Kiln Cong Vase /Tiny rare blue agate chips in glaze / Botryoidal Malachite on copper gilded bands

2nd Commissioned Official Royal Imperial Ru Royal Kiln Cong Vase /Tiny rare blue agate chips in glaze / Botryoidal Malachite on copper gilded bands

2nd Commissioned Official Royal Imperial Ru Royal Kiln Cong Vase /Tiny rare blue agate chips in glaze / Botryoidal Malachite on copper gilded bands

1st Commissioned Official Royal Imperial Ru Kiln Vase / SHOWS THE VERY TINY RARE BLUE AGATE CHIPS IN THE GLAZE

1st Commissioned Official Royal Imperial Ru Kiln Vase / SHOWS THE VERY TINY RARE BLUE AGATE CHIPS IN THE GLAZE

1st Commissioned Official Royal Imperial Ru Kiln Vase / SHOWS THE VERY TINY RARE BLUE AGATE CHIPS IN THE GLAZE

1st commissioned Imperial Ru Royal Kiln Vase With Rare Blue Crushed Agate In Glaze

2nd Commissioned Royal Imperial Ru Royal Kiln Vase With Gilded Over Silver Band with black corrosion And Crushed Rare Blue Agate In Glaze

2nd Commissioned Royal Imperial Ru Kiln Vase With Gilded Over Silver Band with black corrosion And Crushed Rare Blue Agate In Glaze

2nd Commissioned Royal Imperial Ru Kiln Vase With Gilded Over Silver Band with black corrosion And Crushed Rare Blue Agate In Glaze

2nd Commissioned Royal Imperial Ru Royal Kiln Vase With Gilded Over Silver Band with black corrosion And Crushed Rare Blue Agate In Glaze

Official Tribute Ru Kiln Vase / NO CRUSHED AGATE IN GLAZE / SHOWS CLOSEUP OF BOTRYOIDAL MALACHITE ON COPPER GILDED BANDS

Official Tribute Ru Kiln Vase / NO CRUSHED AGATE IN GLAZE / SHOWS CLOSEUP OF BOTRYOIDAL MALACHITE ON COPPER GILDED BANDS

Official Tribute Ru Kiln Vase / NO CRUSHED AGATE IN GLAZE / SHOWS CLOSEUP OF BOTRYOIDAL MALACHITE ON COPPER GILDED BANDS

Official Tribute Ru Kiln Vase / NO CRUSHED AGATE IN GLAZE / SHOWS CLOSEUP OF BOTRYOIDAL MALACHITE ON COPPER GILDED BANDS

Ru Kiln Merchant Vase NO agate in glaze

Ru Kiln Merchant Vase NO agate in glaze

Ru Kiln Merchant Vase NO agate in glaze

Ru Kiln Merchant Vase NO agate in glaze

Below are 48 examples of Official Imperial Royal Ru Wares and Tribute Ru Ware Vases

Official Royal Imperial 2nd Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 2nd Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 2nd Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 2nd Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 2nd Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 2nd Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 2nd Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 2nd Commissioned Ru Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 2nd Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 2nd Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 2nd Commissioned Ru Ware Vase With Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 2nd Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Imperial Ru Kiln Tribute Vase / No Agate in Glaze / Gilded Over Copper Band and Cuprite and Malachite Corrosion

Imperial Ru Kiln Tribute Vase / No Agate in Glaze / Gilded Over Copper Band and Cuprite and Malachite Corrosion

Imperial Ru Kiln Tribute Vase / No Agate in Glaze / Gilded Over Copper Band and Cuprite and Malachite Corrosion

Imperial Ru Kiln Tribute Vase / No Agate in Glaze / Gilded Over Copper Band and Cuprite and Malachite Corrosion

Imperial Ru Kiln Tribute Vase / No Agate in Glaze / Gilded Over Copper Band and Cuprite and Malachite Corrosion

Imperial Ru Ware Tribute Vase / No Agate in Glaze / Gilded Over Copper Band and Cuprite and Malachite Corrosion

Imperial Ru Kiln Tribute Vase / No Agate in Glaze / Gilded Over Copper Band and Cuprite and Malachite Corrosion

Imperial Ru Ware Tribute Vase / No Agate in Glaze / Gilded Over Copper Band and Cuprite and Malachite Corrosion

Imperial Ru Kiln Tribute Vase / No Agate in Glaze / Gilded Over Copper Band and Cuprite and Malachite Corrosion

Imperial Ru Ware Tribute Vase / No Agate in Glaze / Gilded Over Copper Band and Cuprite and Malachite Corrosion

Imperial Ru Kiln Tribute Vase / No Agate in Glaze / Gilded Over Copper Band and Cuprite and Malachite Corrosion

Imperial Ru Kiln Tribute Vase / No Agate in Glaze / Gilded Over Copper Band and Cuprite and Malachite Corrosion

Official Royal Imperial 1st Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 1st Commissioned Ru Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 1st Commissioned Ru Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 1st Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 1st Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 1st Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 1st Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 1st Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Official Royal Imperial 1st Commissioned Ru Royal Kiln Vase / Rare Blue Crushed Agate in Glaze

Eastern Zhou Dynasty Warring States Period Grayish-White Chinese Jade Pendant Featuring Dragon and Phoenix Motifs

Ru Kiln Imperial Tribute Wares: Exceptional Artifacts Presented to Emperor Huizong of the Northern Song Dynasty, Featuring Right
Three Exemplary Tribute Vases.