Chinese ancient jade appraisal and collection

Author: Shang Xiangtao / Country: Mainland China
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-08-01
Features: According to research, Chinese jade culture has a history of approximately 10,000 years. The development of Chinese jade artifacts has gone through five peak stages: late Neolithic mature jade, Shang Dynasty jade, Warring States jade, Han Dynasty jade, and Qing Dynasty jade. The history of jade culture has been intertwined with the formation and development of Chinese civilization, closely related to various aspects of social life throughout the dynasties. Especially since the Eastern Zhou Dynasty, under the advocacy of Confucius, scholars "used jade to compare virtue" and "never separated jade from their bodies without reason." Whether among the imperial family or the common people, the custom of collecting and wearing jade to ward off evil and bring good fortune has endured for millennia, a phenomenon rarely seen in the long history of material and spiritual civilization worldwide. Even today, after the Great Hammer of Reform and Opening Up shattered the shackles of the chaotic "Cultural Revolution" era, coupled with the sensational discoveries of exquisite jade artifacts from the Hongshan and Liangzhu cultures, the trend of loving, wearing, collecting, and appreciating jade has flourished among the descendants of the Yellow River in both China and abroad, as well as in many foreign museums and collector groups, surpassing that of previous dynasties.
Professional books are essential for those who engage in the appreciation of ancient jade. Whether it is a seasoned ancient jade collector with decades of experience or an outstanding "trendsetter" in the current wave of jade collecting, they may all mention a principle: when collecting and appreciating jade, one should carefully and extensively read specialized books on ancient jade. These academic works are rich in professional knowledge, like a lamp illuminating the path forward. For example, the late Qing Dynasty work Illustrated Examination of Ancient Jade by Wu Daliang provides detailed descriptions and interpretations of the era, uses, names, and dimensions of ancient jade, with precise illustrations and great reference value. Contemporary works such as Complete Collection of Chinese Art · Jade edited by Yang Boda, the Complete Collection of Chinese Jade published by Hebei Fine Arts Publishing House (Volumes 1-6), Ancient Jade Artifacts by Zhou Nanquan, Ancient Chinese Jade by Zhao Ming and Li Qun, Jade History by Zhang Guangwen, and the works by Hong Kong's Li Yinghao—Identifying Ancient Jade, Folk Jade, Protective Jade, and Value-Preserving White Jade—all provide accurate descriptions or illustrations of the forms, patterns, craftsmanship, key identification points, and developmental history of ancient jade. Repeatedly studying these books can yield a wealth of professional knowledge and insights into appreciation.
Special mention should be given to the octogenarian ancient jade expert, Mr. Li Gengfu from Taiwan, whose lifetime dedication resulted in the Comprehensive Identification of Jade Artifacts (Volumes 1 and 2). Not only does this book present professional knowledge with clear emphasis, appropriate depth, and well-structured organization, but it also explains complex academic concepts in an accessible and engaging manner, like flowing clouds and water. The writing is both profound and relatable, filled with humor and philosophy. Moreover, the book is beautifully printed, with color photographs of authentic and counterfeit ancient jade artifacts often printed side by side, leaving a lasting impression on the reader. The author has benefited greatly from this work and deeply feels that whether beginners or seasoned experts, keeping such books on the desk and frequently reviewing them will surely live up to the ancient saying, "Every book opened brings benefit."
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