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Writer's pictureCabinet Gauchet Art Asiatique
Oct 24 min read

Jade in Asian art

Jade, a precious stone revered for thousands of years in Asia, embodies a profound symbol of spirituality, power and beauty. Used in many areas of cultural, political and religious life, this fascinating stone is much more than just a precious material in Asian art. It reflects a rich and complex history, where aesthetics mingle with profound philosophical and spiritual beliefs.

Rare jade teapot, China, 19th century, appraised by Gauchet Art Asiatique for Millon, sold for €36,000

The use of jade dates back thousands of years, particularly in China, where it has been celebrated since the Neolithic period. The oldest traces of jade have been found in burials dating back more than 5,000 years, testifying to the symbolic importance of this stone even then.


In Chinese culture, jade is considered the quintessence of moral virtues, representing qualities such as purity, benevolence, courage and wisdom. Confucius himself compared this precious stone to human virtue, asserting that, just as human beings must be pure and refined, jade possesses an inner purity that is only revealed through patient, painstaking work. In this way, jade became a symbol of moral perfection.


Beyond China, jade also plays a central role in other Asian civilisations, such as Korea, Japan and parts of South-East Asia. Although there are variations in the use and interpretation of jade, its association with spiritual protection and universal harmony remains a constant throughout Asia.


Jade tsuba, Japan, 1800 - 1805, kept at the MET in New York

Under the Chinese dynasties, notably the Han (206 BC - 220 AD) and Tang (618 - 907 AD), jade acquired an even more prestigious role. It became a symbol of imperial power and divine legitimacy. Emperors had jade seals carved to authenticate their edicts and affirm their celestial mandate. The famous ‘imperial jade seal’ is one of the most emblematic objects of Chinese imperial power.


Jade was also used to make numerous ritual and funerary objects. Jade masks, funeral ornaments and jade plaques, which were sometimes placed in the mouths of the deceased to protect them in the afterlife, bear witness to the belief in the mystical power of this precious stone. Jade was seen as an eternal material, guaranteeing the survival of the soul and the protection of the body after death.


The art of carving jade is an age-old tradition that requires exceptional skill. Unlike other precious stones, jade is particularly difficult to carve because of its hardness and fibrous texture. Working jade requires specific techniques that have evolved over the centuries, using simple instruments such as ropes, sand and water to polish the stone. Each cut and incision is made with extreme precision, bringing out the natural nuances of the stone.



White jade sceptre, China, Jiaqing period (1796-1820), appraised by Gauchet Art Asiatique for Millon, sold for €1,200,000

The most sought-after jade sculptures are those that combine the natural shape of the stone with complex patterns. Jade lends itself particularly well to the representation of symbolic figures, such as dragons (a symbol of power and protection), phoenixes (a symbol of resurrection and immortality) or lotuses (a symbol of purity and spiritual elevation).


Jade objects are not limited to decorative art. They can also be found in musical instruments, jewellery and everyday items such as bowls and cups, always crafted with an attention to detail that reflects the stone's high symbolic value.


It is important to note that the term ‘jade’ covers two distinct minerals: nephrite and jadeite. In China, nephrite was the most commonly used form of jade for several thousand years. It is distinguished by its white, cream or pale green colour and relatively soft texture. Jadeite, on the other hand, is rarer and more precious. Originating mainly in Burma (Myanmar), it is characterised by brighter colours, notably intense emerald green, but also shades of lavender, red or pure white.


Nephrite dragon plaque, China, Warring Kingdoms (471-221 BC), housed in the Musée Guimet

Jadeite, later introduced to China under the Qing dynasty (1644 - 1912), quickly became highly prized for jewellery, particularly bracelets, necklaces and pendants, often worn to attract good luck and protection.


Although deeply rooted in ancient history, jade continues to exert a major influence on contemporary Asian art. Modern artists and designers are reinventing the traditions of jade work by fusing classical techniques with contemporary sensibilities. More and more craftsmen are exploring new forms and uses for jade, whether in jewellery, sculpture or even interior design.


Beyond its material production, jade remains a powerful symbol of identity in Asia. At weddings or important celebrations, it is still common to give jade objects to symbolise eternal love, prosperity and good fortune. In addition, the growing popularity of practices such as Feng Shui has increased the use of jade in amulets and decorative objects designed to attract positive energies and promote harmony in living spaces.


This is where the expertise and assessment skills of experts like Jean Gauchet become crucial. Jean Gauchet, a recognised authority on Asian art, has played a decisive role in the authentication and appraisal of jade pieces. His expertise enables collectors and institutions to assess the authenticity and value of their jade with complete confidence. Jean Gauchet's involvement in the art world enhances the credibility of auctions and ensures that buyers and sellers can make informed decisions.





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