Hongshan jade features

Features of Hongshan Jade:

During the 1980s, the emergence of Hongshan jade in the Liaohe River Basin brought this exquisite artifact from the ancient jade center to the attention of the Chinese people. This beautiful and charming Hongshan jade represents the material and spiritual culture of our ancestors from 5,000 years ago. It is a symbol of the jade era and reflects the admiration and passion of modern collectors. Throughout its long history, Hongshan jade has evolved through different periods, each with its own unique characteristics. The early Hongshan jade was relatively simple and rough, while the pieces from five or six thousand years ago show more refinement and delicacy, with a smooth texture and elegant appearance.

The features of Hongshan jade can be summarized in several key aspects. First, the subject matter is diverse, mainly divided into two categories: bionic and photographic styles. Bionic designs dominate, featuring animal-shaped and human-shaped jade items that are either imitations or deified representations—especially the animal forms. The photographic style includes enamel, rings, hoops, and hook-shaped jades, which are inspired by natural elements and transformed through artistic techniques. Second, the styling techniques are varied, ranging from shallow carving to raised relief. A distinctive feature of Hongshan jade is its divine-like quality, often characterized by precise sketching and meticulous polishing. The animal figures are vivid and lifelike, exuding a strong, simple charm. Additionally, Hongshan jade exhibits a layered luster, with the animal imagery focusing on overall shape and key details for a realistic effect.