Courtesy of the Harn Museum of Art, Photography by Randy Batista

Bi

Maker Chinese, Liangzhu culture

DateNeolithic period or later

Made/manufacturedChina, Asia

MediumTremolite

DimensionsThickness x Diameter: 11/16 x 11 3/8 in. (1.7 x 28.9 cm)

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LineBequest of Dr. David A. Cofrin

Object number2009.48.186

On View

Not on view

Collections

ASIAN

DescriptionThis large bi disc has been meticulously worked with a subtle concave rim rarely seen on bi discs of this size. Small circular bracelet-form jades from recent Liangzhu excavations show edges which are slightly concave in shape. This suggests an original bone-derived stylistic element. Although these wearable jades with concave edges are more frequently seen, this bi example of large size is most unusual. The surface of the bi disc is highly polished, and there has been much attention to both shape and finish. The overall coloration is mottled green and beige with substantial whitish surface alteration. The physical condition is evidence of prolonged exposure to water and soil minerals resulting from burial. A central hole is drilled from both sides with a resulting offset. The boring of this hole is slightly angled approximately ten degrees due to the limitations of drilling technology. This characteristic is consistent with archaeological excavated examples of the Liangzhu period. In our opinion, the design, workmanship and physical condition of this bi disc indicate consistency with known examples of Liangzhu Neolithic workmanship. (Description taken from Bernstein invoice and appraisal)