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Gold Filigree Zan with Inlaid Gems and Openwork Greenish-white Jade Luan Bird and Peony Motif

Hubei Provincial Museum

Hubei Provincial Museum
Wuhan, China

The Luan bird is a legendary phoenix-like creature. It often appears in pairs, one male and one female, signifying a deep love. This single-pronged hairpin was placed in a middle of the bun, and commonly called "Fenxin" (分心), which means "divided heart". The head of the hairpin is triangular in shape and, at its center, inlaid with a single triangular jade carving. The openwork jade displays twisting peony flowers and one Luan bird on each side. The Luan bird on the left spreads its wings, while the bird on the right turns its head to look back. 18 small ovals line the edge of the hairpin head, set with 17 rubies, sapphires, turquoise, and zircon stones.

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  • Title: Gold Filigree Zan with Inlaid Gems and Openwork Greenish-white Jade Luan Bird and Peony Motif
  • Location: Tomb of Prince Zhuang of Liang, Zhongxiang City, Hubei Province
  • Medium: Gold, Jade, and Precious Stones
  • Excavation Date: 2001
  • Dynasty: Ming Dynasty, 1368-1644
  • Dimensions: Length: 10.6cm, head width: 12.6cm, weight: 42.8g
Hubei Provincial Museum

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