**Originally Listed at $125**

Far East, China, Qing Dynasty or possibly earlier, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A rectangular nephrite jade mineral stand or scabbard fitting, carved with an abstract geometric archaic design with scrolls and a face-like motif at one end. The stone is a beautiful celadon hue with white and black inclusions. Departing from the emerald green and harder jadeite, nephrite varies in color from translucent white to various shades of green and brown. Nephrite like jadeite is considered "true jade" by experts today and was the only jade used during the Neolithic and early dynastic periods. A gorgeous piece created with the utmost artistry! Size: 2" L x 1.375" H (5.1 cm x 3.5 cm)

Jade is a precious stone with a long history. Jade was described in the earliest Chinese dictionaries as possessing the following five virtues: "Benevolence is typified by its luster that is bright and warm; integrity by its translucency; wisdom by it sonorous rin when struck; courage by its hardness; and steadfastness by its durability." (Shuowen jiezi gulin, ed. Ding Fubao (Shanghai: Yixue shuju, 1930; see translation in S. Howard Hansford, Chinese Jade Carving (London: Humphries, 1950), p. 31.)

Provenance: Ex-Piscopo Collection

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#112232

Intact and superb.