What were jade discs used for?

Jade items like bi discs and guis (bronze Chinese ritual vessels) were often used in ceremonies to honor emperors, kings, dukes, and other noble individuals. Later, during the Zhou dynasty, defeated war leaders gifted victorious leaders of opposition with bi discs to represent submission.

Why did the ancient Chinese use jade?

Jade (nephrite) was regarded as the most precious stone in ancient China, and it symbolised purity and moral integrity. Jade was especially used for ritual objects such as the bi disc and zong (cong) tubes, both of which are of unknown function.

What is a jade bi disc?

A “bi” or “pi” disc is a flat jade disc with a circular hole in the centre. The original function and significance of the bi are unknown, as the Neolithic cultures have left no written history. Bi are sometimes found near the stomach and chest in neolithic burials.

What was jade used for in the Shang Dynasty?

1600–1046 bce) In the Shang dynasty and particularly at Anyang, the craft of jade carving made a notable advance. Ceremonial weapons and fittings for bronze weapons were carved from jade; ritual jades included the bi, cong, and symbols of rank.

What does a jade circle symbolize?

A simple jade circle with a hole in the center placed on a chain or fabric cord has been a Chinese favorite for centuries. Representing the sun or heaven and symbolizing eternity, this jade symbol is and will always be one of the most iconic jade designs. The jade disc is also worn with gold findings.

What is a Chinese Cong?

A hollow cylinder or truncated cone enclosed in a rectangular body, the cong varies in proportion from squat to quite tall. The cong was used as a ritual utensil during sacrificial and burial ceremonies. It was also sometimes made of stone.

What is the significance of jade?

Jade symbolism includes associations with nobility and wealth. Many consider it a protector of generations, living and dead. Jade has been and always will be the “Gem Supreme” and the “Jewel of Heaven,” stone of the heart.

What is the importance of jade?

Jade symbolizes prosperity, success, and good luck. It is also a symbol of renewal, longevity, and even immortality. The Chinese call jade 玉 (or yù). This is closely related to the word for Emperor, which is 王 (wáng).

What is a Chinese bi disk?

bi, Wade-Giles romanization pi, in art, Chinese jade carved in the form of a flat disk with a hole in the centre. The earliest examples, which are unornamented, date from the Neolithic Period (c. 5000–2000 bc). The bi may have been a symbol of heaven or of the sun (in that it resembles the ancient graph for “sun”).

What’s special about jade?

Jade is one of the most treasured stones in China, where feng shui was developed. This highly valued and beautiful stone represents strength and luck and invites good health.

What was jade used for on the Silk Road?

In fact, jade came from along the Silk Road. Because jade is extremely hard, it might have been tried early on for tools and weapons. In ancient times, as today, jade was also used for personal adornment. Jade rings, bracelets, pendants, beads, and the like appear very early.

What does a jade fish mean?

Jade Fish pendant The jade fish in feng shui stands for wealth and abundance. Wearing jade fish pendant is believed to bring chance of getting wealth. In addition, jade fish is also good for whom wishes to have baby since it has ability of fertility. Jade fish pendant is the symbol of wealth and abundant.