Throckmorton Fine Art
Timed Auction

Liangzhu: Ritual Objects at the Dawn of China’s Jade Age

Thu, May 19, 2022 12:00AM EDT - Fri, Jun 3, 2022 05:00PM EDT
Lot 15

Axe (Yue), Late Neolithic Period, Liangzhu Culture (3200 - 2300 BCE)

Estimate: $3,000 - $4,000

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $25
$2,000 $50
$5,000 $100
Jade, H: 6 3/16 in. W: 5 5/8 in. Th: 7/16 in.

Condition

The pictured axe blade is a classic example of late Liangzhu craftsmanship. These ceremonial objects would be attached to a wooden handle by a biconical hole drilled at the top/center of the blade. The thickness of this blade remains even from left to right as it tapers down to its fine beveled edge. The trapezoidal appearance achieved by the slightly flared blade edges is typical of the period. The color of the polished nephrite is a lush brown highlighted by deep, dark greens. This work is expertly carved and in very good condition considering it's age and has one chip on its rear facing right side and a few small scratches. This object has a custom made steel display base.