Ancient Chinese, Neolithic jade Jade Cong with Taotie masks, Liangzhou. - 13.5 cm
06
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Starting bid
€ 1
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Selected by Peter Reynaers
Has nearly 30 years’ experience and moderated multiple online art research groups.
Estimate € 600 - € 1,200
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Description from the seller
This object is a Chinese cong, a ritual tube made of nephrite jade from the Neolithic period, Liangzhu culture (around 3300-2000 BC). It is decorated with a triple tier of Taotie masks.
These objects are characterized by a square outer shape and a hollow cylindrical interior.
They were made of nephrite, a very hard rock, and their manufacture required considerable effort.
The cong, with the bi disk, was used in ancient religious rituals to honor the Earth (square) and the Sky (round).
Their exact purpose remains unknown, but they were placed in the tombs of wealthy individuals, suggesting a link to social status and wealth.
Acquired at a public auction, from the jade collection of a Belgian doctor, formed in the 1960s/1970s.
Shipment by Bpost with tracking number.
Catawiki disclaimer: This piece has been dated based on style by the seller. No further tests, such as a TL test, analysis of metals (XRF test), lapidary tests, analysis of pigments, or radiography scans, have been conducted to check the integrity of the piece.
This object is a Chinese cong, a ritual tube made of nephrite jade from the Neolithic period, Liangzhu culture (around 3300-2000 BC). It is decorated with a triple tier of Taotie masks.
These objects are characterized by a square outer shape and a hollow cylindrical interior.
They were made of nephrite, a very hard rock, and their manufacture required considerable effort.
The cong, with the bi disk, was used in ancient religious rituals to honor the Earth (square) and the Sky (round).
Their exact purpose remains unknown, but they were placed in the tombs of wealthy individuals, suggesting a link to social status and wealth.
Acquired at a public auction, from the jade collection of a Belgian doctor, formed in the 1960s/1970s.
Shipment by Bpost with tracking number.
Catawiki disclaimer: This piece has been dated based on style by the seller. No further tests, such as a TL test, analysis of metals (XRF test), lapidary tests, analysis of pigments, or radiography scans, have been conducted to check the integrity of the piece.
Details
Culture
Ancient Chinese, Neolithic
Century/ Timeframe
3400-2250 avant JC
Name of object
Jade Cong with Taotie masks, Liangzhou.
Acquired from
Private collection
Subject/Depiction
Cong
Year acquired
2023
Material
jade
Country acquired from
Belgium
Condition
Very good
Previous owner acquired from
Auction house
Height
13.5 cm
Previous owner - year acquired
1970
Width
7.5 cm
Previous owner - country acquired from
Belgium
Depth
7.5 cm
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Sold by
Disclaimer
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
