Carved jade Bi "Deer", Zhou Dynasty

A finely carved jade ritual disc, circular in shape and flat in section, with an openwork central structure depicting a deer in a dynamic pose. The animal is sculpted with a compact body and sturdy legs, a raised head and prominent flaming antlers that project backwards in sinuous forms. The figure is harmoniously integrated into the disc by a central circular section that frames it. The outer ring, with a regular rim and slightly convex surface, is decorated in low relief with geometric and undulating motifs of archaic inspiration. The surface shows areas of natural patina, with brown, reddish and ochre veins typical of the age of the material. Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BC) or later.

Diameter: 11.3 cm; Thickness: 0.6 cm

Weight: 153 g

Provenance:

- Collection of Tommy Lam, Hong Kong, from 1980