Craved jade Bi “Beasts”, Warring States Period

A carved jade of a reddish-brown hue with ochre flecks. It is in the shape of a traditional “Bi” disc, with a flat surface and a circular hole in the centre. It is decorated on both sides, with the image of two intimidating beasts in relief on the front, with a fierce gaze, wide snout and curled horns. On the back is an incised decoration of borders arranged in concentric circles. Warring States period (481/403-221 BC) or later.

Diameter: 7.7 cm; Thickness: 1.5 cm

Weight: 125 g

Provenance: Collection of Tommy Lam, Hong Kong, from 1980.