Hetian Jade Bi Disc with Gilt-Metal Ornament, Pre-Ming Style
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Additional photographs, close-up views, and condition details are available upon request, whenever possible.
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Collection
Jade & Hardstone
Period
Pre-Ming Style
Overview
A large Hetian jade bi disc mounted with gilt-metal ornament, distinguished by its bold circular form, dense archaistic decoration, and striking contrast between pale stone and warm metallic surface.
Description
This impressive bi disc is carved from Hetian jade and enriched with applied gilt-metal ornament arranged across the surface in an animated archaistic design. The broad circular form, centered by a neatly cut aperture, preserves the essential geometry of the classical bi while transforming it into a far more sculptural and visually complex object. The combination of stone and metal gives the piece unusual richness, allowing the quiet mass of the jade to serve as a ground for the lively relief work above.
Particularly striking is the decorative field of scrolling beasts and curling motifs distributed across the face in layered clusters. These raised forms create a surface of strong movement and rhythm, recalling the visual vocabulary of early ritual ornament. The gilt-metal elements, now softened by age, oxidation, and encrustation, stand out against the pale stone with a warm tonal contrast that enhances the object’s depth and historical character. The result is both richly ornamental and architecturally composed.
Objects of this type are especially admired for the way archaistic form, precious material, and layered surface treatment are brought together in a single work. Here, the large scale, dense relief patterning, and weathered interaction between jade and gilt-metal combine to create an object of strong cabinet presence. It is best appreciated not only as a bi disc, but also as a decorative and ceremonial work valued for its sculptural force, material dialogue, and connection to the enduring language of early Chinese art.
Details
Object Type: Bi Disc / Ritual Disc
Material: Hetian jade with gilt-metal appliqué or inlaid ornament
Form: Circular disc with central aperture
Decoration: Archaistic scrolling beast and cloud-like motifs in raised gilt-metal work
Diameter: 21 cm
Width: 1.5 cm
Weight: 990 g
Origin: China
Condition
Overall in good aged condition, with natural surface wear, oxidation, encrustation, and age-related irregularities consistent with jade and gilt-metal composite works of this type. Losses, rubbing, and surface variation are in keeping with the material combination and contribute to the historical character of the piece.
Authenticity & Attribution Note
This disc is offered as a work in pre-Ming style. The attribution is based on material, form, decorative vocabulary, and comparative visual judgment, and should be understood as stylistic rather than as an absolute guarantee of date, period, or archaeological origin. The description of the metalwork as gilt-metal reflects visual assessment and should be read accordingly.
We are happy to provide additional photographs, closer views, and condition details whenever possible. Serious inquiries are always welcome.