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Bi disk

Chinese

Artwork Details

Bi disk
206 BCE - 220 CE
Chinese
white nephrite
5/16 x 3 x 3 ½ in. (0.9 x 9.0 x 9.0 cm);5 ½ in. (14.0 cm);1 3/8 in. (3.5 cm);5 ½ in. (14.0 cm)
Museum purchase from the collection of Max Loehr
1960/2.96

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Description

Hardstone (nephrite, often mistakenly called jade) was one of the most important raw materials imported to China during the Han dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE). The Chinese worked hardstone into intricate carvings for ritual purposes.

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