Many jades were burned in the shamanistic/daoist ceremonies preceeding burial. The alteration in the jades that were included in this cremation symbolized the transformation that the spirit was thought to undergo in death, burial and reawakening in the afterlife.

Sometimes the actual body was also cremated, but it was not required (local custom determined that). However if that were the case, the smoke that carried the combustion products of the body was thought to carry the spirit heavenward, bringing it immediately to its final abode.

In the intense heat of the fire, the burned jade loses its translucency and color, becoming a creamy, opaque white. Resembling the bones of a cooked animal, this altered jade was a mystical presence that was believed to give the deceased immediate spiritual sustenance - and maybe help the spirit ultimately find heaven by being an offering the spirit could give the "heavenly helpers" (usually dragons) that guided it on its journey through the various layers of space into heaven.

The Chinese have given such jades the name of "chicken bone" when they are excavated. They are uncommon and have been highly prized by collectors from the medievil onwards. Every important museum collection of jades in the world contains at least several of these significant types.

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ACJ1001 - Tiger Face Plaque

This 1 7/8 inch wide tiger face plaque shows absorption of rust from proximity to iron implements in the ground after cremation. Incised-carved on one side with a Tao' t'ieh tiger face, the piece is well smoothed and shows modern handling. This is consistent with the (sad) fact that it has been hole-drilled in modern times for suspension. An example of Mingqi (italics) that was converted in the 20th century for waist suspension. Thus the bargain price of this Ming period artifact. PRICE: $125.00

ACJ1002 - Tao' t'ieh Mask With Horns

Bold Tao' t'ieh mask with forceful carving and horn-like ears at either side. Also, vertically pierced so that another protective amulet could be suspended below. Likely for a military noble, the burning was of medium-high temperature leaving a pale celadon green coloration. Most likely Ming or early Qing period, the carving is strong, well done and maybe provincial. Carving is 2 1/16 inches tall by 2 9/16 inches wide and 11/16 inches thick. PRICE: $250.00