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Antique Carved Black Nephrite Jade Tablet Qing Dynasty Period Untreated

About the Item

This exquisite and rare black jade tablet dates to the Qing period. The Qing Dynasty period spanned the years 1636 -1912. Precisely dating jade artifacts from this era is an imprecise science. Part of the reason for this is because lapidary artists paid homage to previous aesthetics. This was not done to "fool" somebody into believing a piece was earlier than it was; but rather for an artistic continuity. The Chinese culture is thousands of years old. And honoring the truly magnificent pre-historic -and later- carvings has always been part of jade culture. While it may be impossible to date a piece with 100% certainty, it is possible to exclude certain pieces from being true antiquities due to certain tool marks on the piece or even design elements that were period-inappropriate. This magnificent carving was executed entirely by hand and without the aid of any modern tools. No crevice has been left "unworked" and for this reason, the piece is even more magnificent when viewed under the microscope. For here, under high magnification, authenticity is unmistakable. This tablet is consistent with 18th-19th century works; several of which can be viewed in "Later Chinese Jades: Ming Dynasty to Early Twentieth Century" published by the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco. Because black jade has increased exponentially in popularity over the last decade, the market is rife with imposters. Black jade is routinely dyed and the pigment is so thick and impenetrable it can prevent modern gemological equipment from even obtaining an accurate reason for mineral composition. I have seen bangles baked in shoe polish and carved tablets inscribed with acid to imply age. This black nephrite is untreated. The carving depicts an ornamental border with a pair of stylized lingzhi mushrooms near the hole for the bail. Two figures appear in the foreground and one may be holding a scepter. In the background, we can identify a pine tree on a cliff -symbolizing longevity. Also in the background, we see what may be a small temple. It is a truly magnificent work, only more fascinating when viewed under high magnification. I have included several images from the microscope. The rear of the tablet is smooth. This black jade is actually very dark green nephrite jade; you can see the green tone when the tablet is backlit or in the brightest light. The tablet measures 58.28mm x 36.85mm x 8.37mm. A modern silver hoop has been treaded through the old hole at the top. A new 30" oxidized silver chain is included. The tablet has no chips, cracks or damage. The pendant ships with a certificate from Stone Group Labs stating that the jade is natural and untreated nephrite jade.

Metal:

Silver

Stone:

Jade

Stone Cut:

Emerald Cut

Weight:

50.43 g

Dimensions:

Width: 1.46 in (36.85 mm)Depth: 0.33 in (8.37 mm)Length: 2.3 in (58.28 mm)

Style:

Artisan