Jade Bi with Cloud Pattern - Full

" As early as the Neolithic age 6,000 years ago, the ancient people of the Longshan culture began to use jade Bi. During the Shang and Eastern Zhou periods, jade Bi became a symbol of status with strict rules regulating their use. During the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, the ornamental uses of jade Bi increased and their carving techniques became more complex.

This cloud-patterned jade Bi was carved from greenish-white jade. It is round and flat with a hole in the center. Both sides are engraved with a cloud pattern in three concentric circles. The central circle of the pattern also uses comma-shaped depressions. The inner and outer edges are decorated with fine diagonal lines. This Bi was not only a symbol of power, but was also used in sacrificial ceremonies and worn as an ornament. Finally, it was buried with the funerary objects of the Marquis Yi of Zeng."