Ritual Disc

Currently not on view

Ritual Disc

Around 2250 BCE

Artist/maker unknown, Chinese

Neolithic and archaic jades have been collected and treasured in China since antiquity. Jade discs are referred to as bi (pronounced bee) if the central hole is smaller than the radius of the body. Their use in Neolithic times is unknown, but in later ritual texts these discs were thought to symbolize heaven, and also served as symbols of rank. Displaying such a bi was particularly meaningful for an emperor, the “Son of Heaven,“ as it would have referred not only to antiquity but also to the ideals of rulership.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Ritual Disc

Date:

Around 2250 BCE

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Chinese

Medium:

Jade; wood stand

Dimensions:

Diameter: 6 11/16 inches (17 cm) Thickness: 3/8 inches (1 cm)

Classification:

Ceremonial

Credit Line:

Gift of Major General and Mrs. William Crozier, 1944

Accession Number:

1944-20-497a,b

Geography:

Made in China, Asia

Context:

Period: Neolithic Period (10,000-c. 2100 BCE)

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Currently not on view