Far East, China, mid-20th century CE. A very large, jade mask depicting a Shang Dynasty deity, carved from a stone of rich green hues with white inclusions. Jade was prized by the ancient Chinese, appreciated for its durability, hardness, and inherent beauty. Jade has been carved in most periods of Chinese history to create ceremonial as well as utilitarian objects. Carving such a hard stone requires stupendous skill and artistry. This piece is an impressive carving of a Shang Dynasty deity with a dramatic visage comprised of large upturned eyes framed with thick brows, a long and curvilinear nose, elongated rectilinear earlobes, and a wide subtle smile. What's more there are perforations through the ears presumably for attaching further ornaments. A lovely work created from this important artistic medium. Size: 9.5" L x 8" W at widest point (24.1 cm x 20.3 cm)

Provenance: Ex-private Peter Arnovick collection, Los Altos, CA. Mr. Arnovick was a collector and dealer of ancient and ethnographic cultures.

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#112197

Intact and excellent.