Lot 034 A RARE WHITE JADE ‘ANIMAL MASK AND CLOUD’ DISC (BI) HAN DYNASTY (206 BC–220 AD) 汉代 兽面卷云纹玉璧

Description

A RARE WHITE JADE ‘ANIMAL MASK AND CLOUD’ DISC (BI)
HAN DYNASTY (206 BC–220 AD)
汉代 兽面卷云纹玉璧
ESTIMATE: $800– $1.200
Description
This exceptionally carved white jade disc, or bi, is a superb example of the sophisticated lapidary art of the Han Dynasty. The surface is densely decorated with an intricate, low-relief pattern of stylized animal masks (taotie) interwoven with rhythmic scrolls of “cloud” (juan yun) motifs. The carving is characteristic of the Han period’s mastery, utilizing fluid, powerful lines that create a sense of movement and spiritual vitality.
The jade material is of a translucent, creamy white tone with a warm, waxy luster. A distinctive structural feature of this piece is the deep, clean groove incised along the outer edge of the disc, giving it a bi-level appearance from the side—a refined detail reserved for high-status ornamental jades. Subtle areas of russet “skin” and natural mineralization from long-term burial are visible on the surface, enhancing its archaic beauty and serving as a testament to its significant antiquity.
Dimensions
• Diameter: 5.1 cm
• Thickness: 1.2 cm
• Weight: 20 g
CONDITION REPORT
The jade disc is in excellent condition. The stone exhibits a smooth, aged patina with natural surface weathering and minor internal fissures consistent with its burial history. The relief carvings remain crisp and well-defined. No cracks, chips, or modern restorations were observed upon visual inspection.
Provenance
• From a Private Canadian Collection
汉代 兽面卷云纹玉璧
描述
此件汉代白玉璧工精质美，是汉代玉器工艺巅峰时期的杰出代表。璧面满布细密流畅的兽面纹与卷云纹，纹饰交织婉转，构图严谨且极具张力，展现了汉代典型的雄浑大气与流动感。其雕琢工艺精准，线条遒劲有力。
玉质呈奶白色，温润细腻，具有极佳的油脂光泽。此璧的一大工艺特色在于其外周边缘深挖有一圈整齐的凹槽，使其侧面呈现出独特的双层视觉效果，这种精细的加工手段常见于汉代高等级佩玉。玉璧表面带有自然的红褐色沁点及矿物质残留，包浆自然，尽显古玉神韵。
技术规格
• 直径: 5.1 厘米
• 厚度: 1.2 厘米
• 重量: 20 克
品相报告
玉璧整体品相极佳。表面包浆浑厚，可见与年代相符的自然风化痕迹及内部天然纹理。浮雕纹饰依然清晰锐利，无明显崩缺或裂纹。经检查，未见任何现代修复痕迹。
来源
• 来自加拿大私人珍藏