This exquisite piece resembles a knife or dagger, with a design that is as much a work of art as it is a functional object.
The jade is a pale green color, interspersed with alternating brown portions that have developed over time. The artifact is divided into two distinct parts: the dagger blade and the handle. The blade itself is shaped like a large, curved hook, with a surface that is wide and shallow, featuring broad, curved lines. The edge of the blade is honed to a slanted finish, giving the opposite sides of the wide line a ribbed appearance—a characteristic detail of Hongshan craftsmanship.
The handle is wide and long, gradually narrowing towards the bottom, which gently tapers to a close. The variation in the surface width has allowed for the edges to be honed into a circular arc, adding an elegant and refined touch to the overall design.
For those interested in seeing similar artifacts, comparable examples are on display at the Aurora Museum, where you can appreciate the intricate artistry of these ancient jade pieces up close.
This jade artifact is a testament to the sophisticated techniques and artistic sensibilities of the Hongshan Culture. It offers us a fascinating glimpse into the past, where function and form were beautifully intertwined.
