Ancient Chinese Jade Bi Travelling Ritual Disc - 2nd to 1st Millenium BCE | Zelnik Collection
Ancient Chinese Jade Bi Travelling Ritual Disc - 2nd to 1st Millenium BCE | Zelnik Collection
Ancient Chinese Jade Bi Travelling Ritual Disc - 2nd to 1st Millenium BCE | Zelnik Collection
Ancient Chinese Jade Bi Travelling Ritual Disc - 2nd to 1st Millenium BCE | Zelnik Collection
Ancient Chinese Jade Bi Travelling Ritual Disc - 2nd to 1st Millenium BCE | Zelnik Collection

Ancient Chinese Jade Bi Travelling Ritual Disc - 2nd to 1st Millenium BCE | Zelnik Collection

Regular price$503.00
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Estimated time period from 2000BCE to 1000BCE
Size is 58 mm and weight is 22.02 g
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Discover the mystique of ancient China with this authentic jade Bi disc. A ceremonial artifact from the Shang dynasty, this piece encapsulates the timeless allure of ritualistic journeys and spiritual guidance.

The Chinese jade Bi disc is a captivating relic from a world steeped in ceremonial tradition. Dating back to the 2nd to 1st millennium BCE, this disc is characteristic of the Shang dynasty, known for its advanced bronze work and jade carving. With a diameter of 58mm and a weight of 22.02 grams, the disc's dimensions are a testament to its role as a spiritual and ritualistic emblem.

Jade was revered in ancient China, not merely for its beauty but for its hardness, durability, and musical qualities. The Bi disc, with its central hole, is believed to have symbolized heaven and was often used in rites of passage, including those for safe travels. The hand-made, irregular funnel-shaped hole further emphasizes the personal care and traditional techniques employed in its creation.

This particular disc has been carefully preserved, retaining the antique patina that narrates its long history. The simplicity and elegance of its form, combined with the intricate natural patterns of the jade, render it a prized piece for collectors and enthusiasts of ancient Chinese culture.

Acquired by Dr. István Zelnik, a seasoned diplomat and an authority on Asian art, this Bi disc is a highlight from a collection that reflects over six decades of passionate acquisition and research. Its inclusion in such a revered collection assures its authenticity and cultural value, presenting an extraordinary opportunity to own a piece of the distant past that echoes the spiritual beliefs and artistic merit of ancient China.


The jade Bi disc shown in the images is a remarkable artifact from ancient China, likely used in ritualistic ceremonies. The craftsmanship visible in the hand-made and irregularly shaped hole suggests an intimate and purposeful creation process, typical of sacred objects. The disc's smooth finish and subtle color variations within the jade are indicative of the stone's natural beauty and the high value placed on such materials in ancient times. Its well-preserved condition, along with the context provided by its provenance, makes it a significant piece for collectors, and a direct link to the spiritual and artistic practices of the Shang dynasty or even earlier periods.

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