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Liao Jade bear
stock number: 2047
price: $1000.USD/$7750.HKD
description:
Exceptionally rare jade ornament in the shape of a bear from the non Han, Liao Dynasty, 907 CE – 1125 CE. The Liao were pastoralists who lived in the far northeast of what is now China. Like the Manchus they spoke a Tungusic language and had strong cross cultural ties to the Han. Of the various cultures and civilizations that lived on the periphery of the Chinese heartland, their art and artifacts seem to be the most unique and distinctive. Although Buddhism was practiced amongst the royal classes there was a strong shamanistic tradition as is typical of nomadic peoples, and the bear was considered a sacred animal. In excellent condition this piece has three piercings so it was most likely sewn onto a garment or harness, but also be worn as a contemporary style pendant. D: 3.3cm/1.2in. See last enlargement for a stylistic reference of a silver belt ornament- “The Artistic Legacy of the Qidan”.
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