top of page
Search

Ornamental jade plaques: treasures of Asian art

Updated: Jul 21

Ornamental jade plaques have been an integral part of Asian art for centuries. Carved from this precious stone, often green in colour, they depict a variety of motifs: divinities, animals, landscapes, scenes from everyday life... These plaques were often used to decorate the homes of the elite, temples or tombs. They were also given as a sign of respect or friendship.


Ornamental jade plaque, China, Warring Kingdoms period (481/403 BC - 221 BC)
Ornamental jade plaque, China, Warring Kingdoms period (481/403 BC - 221 BC)

The love affair between Asia and jade goes back thousands of years. Traces of jade working dating back to the Neolithic period have been found in China, proving a deep and ancient link with this precious stone. Far from being simply admired for its beauty, jade was revered for its solidity and supposed virtues. It was said to have protective powers, warding off evil spirits and bringing luck and fortune to its owner.


Over the centuries, ornamental jade plaques have evolved in step with political, social and cultural changes. The Han dynasty left its mark through geometric and abstract motifs of great sobriety and refined elegance. In contrast, the Tang dynasty favoured a more realistic style, decorating the plaques with scenes of daily life, mythological figures or symbolic animals. Each dynasty and each period thus made its own contribution, transforming these plaques into privileged witnesses to changes in Asian art and society.


Ornamental jade plaque, China, 18th century, held at the MET in New York
Ornamental jade plaque, China, 18th century, held at the MET in New York

Jade didn't just conquer China. Its production spread throughout Asia, giving rise to styles and motifs specific to each region. In Japan, craftsmen developed a taste for finesse and simplicity, creating plaques adorned with delicate floral motifs. In Korea, jade was associated with shamanism and spirituality, adorned with esoteric symbols and protective animal figures. Vietnam, on the other hand, favoured naturalistic representations, featuring mountainous landscapes and wild animals. Each country has thus developed its own artistic language through jade, reflecting its culture and beliefs.


Ornamental jade plaque, China, Warring Kingdoms period (481/403 BC - 221 BC)
Ornamental jade plaque, China, Warring Kingdoms period (481/403 BC - 221 BC)


From the 17th century onwards, the West also discovered Chinese jade. Refined works of art, the ornamental plaques were much admired by European collectors and artists. Inspired by this enigmatic stone, craftsmen embarked on their own exploration of jade. Sculptures, vases and jewellery of great finesse were created, testifying to the profound influence of jade on Western art.


Today, ornamental plaques in ancient jade are highly sought-after collector's items. Their value can reach astronomical sums, depending on a number of criteria. The quality of the stone, its degree of transparency and its colour play an important role. The rarity of the motif and the age of the plaque are also important factors. Finally, the history of the piece, its provenance and any prestigious collectors who have owned it also contribute to its price. More than just an objet d'art, an ornamental plaque in ancient jade becomes a veritable treasure, the bearer of a thousand years of history and inestimable symbolic value.



Ornamental jade plaque, China, 16th-17th century, held at the MET in New York
Ornamental jade plaque, China, 16th-17th century, held at the MET in New York


Far from being mere decorative objects, ornamental jade plaques are windows onto Asian history and culture. They tell the story of the evolution of craft techniques, reflect the beliefs and aspirations of past societies, and bear witness to the fruitful exchanges between East and West. Their timeless beauty and symbolic power continue to fascinate art lovers the world over, making jade an exceptional material that has spanned centuries and continents.


References :





 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page