Description
A Taotie mask motif is carved on both sides of this precisely carved white nephrite jade urn figurine. Taotie (饕餮) are ancient Chinese mythological creatures that were commonly emblazoned on bronze & other artifacts during the 1st millennium BC. The motif of Taotie is likely to originate from a kind of mask which was used as a protection from evil spirits. The urn is bottle shaped with pierced scroll decorations at top. On both sides, an oval medallion is carved with a Greek key border, old cloud pattern & the mask motif. The precious nephrite jade stone is of white color with some even brighter white striations & natural inclusions. There are natural variations to the tones & translucency of the stone. The pendant measures 1 3/16 inches by 1 7/8 inches with a 3/4 inch depth & a hefty weight of 69.9 grams. There is a small 1mm hole drilled at top, but the pierced holes at the neck of the urn could also be used for hanging. This recently carved jade is in excellent condition. Please check out all of the photos & below for detailed measurements & my notes on the difficulty of photographing this beautiful piece. Wt: 69.9 grams Length: 55mm or 1 3/16 Inches Widest Point: 47mm or 1 7/8 inches Depth: 18mm or 3/4 Inch Hole measurement: 1mm Condition: excellent recently carved condition NOTE: The light colored jade is much more beautiful in person; the camera has a hard time focusing on its amazing detail. I tried all kinds of backgrounds & settings & could not get it quite right! One photo depicts a flashlight behind the jade to demonstrate its semi-translucency. Each vintage piece has been examined by a graduate gemologist. Stone carat weights stated represent approximate weights which can vary by the limitations of measuring set gems. Due to the age, antique & vintage jewelry & sterling objects are often not perfect, & may have normal signs of surface wear, or small imperfections due to hand crafting or production in a long gone era rather than mass-manufactured nature. This is what makes each piece special & unique! Please click on FAQs "Do I require signature requirements" at the bottom of this listing to read shipping policies regarding signature requirements. Thank you. Ancient Bronze Urn Design With Taotie Mask Mythical Chinese Face White On Natural Carved Nephrite Jade Pendant
