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 29

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

Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $25
$2,000 $50
$5,000 $100
Jade, H: 11 3/4 in. W: 8 in. Th: 5/16 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 it's biconically drilled hole at the top/center of the blade. The thickness of this blade remains even from left to right as it tapers down to it's fine beveled edge. The trapeziodal appearance achieved by the slightly flared blades edges is typical of the period. The color is mostly emerald green with brownish/yllow iron oxide induced discoloration on the top and right side and alone the grain edges . This work is expertly carved and in excellent condition considering it's age and has no chips or scratches. This object has a custom made steel display base.