The Magnificent Kunlun Jade: The Songzhutang Collection of Ming and Qing Jade

The collection includes both excavated and unearthed jades, with the former retaining their original palettes and the latter suffering from handling, dying, and exposure to air. Preference is a matter of individual taste.

Format: Hardback
Length: 190 pages
Publication date: 16 June 2023
Publisher: CA Book Publishing

This collection encompasses a wide range of jade artifacts, including both those that have never been buried underground and those that have been excavated from archaeological sites. The remarkable aspect of excavated jades is that they retain their original vibrant palettes, making them highly valuable and sought after by international museums and institutions engaged in archaeological excavations. In contrast, jades that have never been buried have undergone a natural aging process due to exposure to air, handling, and other environmental factors. As a result, these jades exhibit unique characteristics and properties that distinguish them from their buried counterparts.

Among the two aforementioned varieties, collectors often exhibit a preference for one over the other based on their individual tastes and preferences. The excavated jades, with their preserved original hues, hold a timeless allure and captivate collectors with their historical significance. On the other hand, the jades that have never been buried offer a glimpse into the raw beauty and natural aging process of jade, appealing to those who appreciate the raw and unpolished nature of the material.

In terms of quality, both types of jade can vary significantly. Excavated jades, due to their careful preservation and protection from the elements, are often of higher quality and more durable. They have undergone minimal alteration or damage over time, preserving their original shape, color, and texture. In contrast, jades that have never been buried may exhibit more natural flaws, such as cracks, discoloration, or inclusions, which can affect their value and appeal.

Collecting jade can be a fascinating and rewarding endeavor for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Whether one prefers excavated jades with their preserved original palettes or unburied jades with their unique natural characteristics, there is a vast array of jade artifacts to explore and appreciate. With its rich history, cultural significance, and aesthetic beauty, jade continues to captivate people around the world, and its popularity as a collectible is likely to endure for generations to come.

Weight: 1844g
Dimension: 318 x 248 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789887608936