Hello everyone, I am Zhao Yaqin. I have been immersed in the jade industry for over thirty years, with a particular fondness for the warmth and profound depth of ancient jade. Over these years, I have witnessed the dramatic shifts in the ancient jade market and participated in countless discussions and research projects on ancient jade culture. Today, I want to share some of my latest thoughts on contemporary ancient jade research, hoping to open a new window for everyone.
For a long time, ancient jade research has primarily focused on "artifact studies" aspects such as typology, ornamentation, patination, and material. This is undoubtedly fundamental and important. However, with advancements in technology and the rise of interdisciplinary research, I have increasingly come to realize that merely staying at the "object" level might cause us to miss the deeper cultural connotations and spiritual values embodied by ancient jade. I believe that contemporary ancient jade research is gradually moving from the superficial "object" to the essential "philosophy," meaning exploring the philosophical ideas, social systems, aesthetic tastes, and even cosmological views hidden behind ancient jade.
My unique insight is that we should place greater emphasis on interpreting ancient jade "contextually" within its historical setting. Every piece of ancient jade does not exist in isolation; it is a product of a specific era, a specific region, and specific people. For example, the jade pig-dragon from the Hongshan culture should not be viewed merely as an exquisite sculpture. Only by combining archaeological excavations of Hongshan culture sites with research into primitive religions and shamanic beliefs can we understand the totemistic significance of the jade pig-dragon as a medium for communicating with heaven and earth and praying for abundant harvests. It is not just an "object"; it is a carrier of "philosophy," embodying the reverence and aspirations of ancient people towards life and nature. Another example is the Han Dynasty jade bi disc. The evolution of its form and ornamentation is closely related to the flourishing of Confucian thought and the perfection of ritual culture during that period. From its initial role as a ritual object for sacrifice to its later status as a symbol of identity and an amulet against evil, the functional evolution of the jade bi reflects the changing social concepts of the Han Dynasty. We should not only focus on the "quality" of the jade bi but also delve into "why it is so."
In a practical case, I participated in a research project on Liangzhu culture jade artifacts. Traditional views hold that Liangzhu jade ware, represented by the exquisite jade cong and jade bi, demonstrates highly developed jade carving techniques. However, through in-depth analysis of the assemblages of jade artifacts unearthed from Liangzhu burial sites, we found that the quantity, types, and placement of jade artifacts in different-grade tombs were strictly regulated. This was not merely a symbol of wealth but a concrete manifestation of social hierarchy and power structures. The jade cong was not just a sacrificial item; it was a symbol of the unity of kingship and divine power. Its inner round and outer square shape might embody the ancient Chinese cosmological view of "a round heaven and a square earth." This interpretation, moving from "object" to "philosophy," has given us a new understanding of the complexity of Liangzhu civilization and provides valuable clues for comprehending the formation of early Chinese civilization.
Furthermore, the involvement of scientific and technological means has brought unprecedented opportunities for ancient jade research. For instance, non-destructive testing techniques can help us more accurately analyze the mineral composition and origin of jade, and even infer its processing techniques. This provides scientific evidence for determining the authenticity and age of ancient jade. Isotope analysis can even help us trace the origin of jade materials, thereby outlining ancient jade trade routes, which is of great significance for studying ancient economic and cultural exchanges. However, we must also be wary of the tendency towards "technological determinism." Technology is a tool; the ultimate interpretation and insight still lie in the researcher's profound understanding of history and culture.
In summary, contemporary ancient jade research is undergoing a profound paradigm shift. We are no longer satisfied with merely describing and authenticating artifacts themselves but are committed to exploring the deeper cultural connotations and spiritual values embodied by ancient jade. This shift from "object" to "philosophy" requires us to possess a broader scope of knowledge, integrating multidisciplinary knowledge from archaeology, history, philosophy, anthropology, and even natural sciences.
For future ancient jade research, I propose the following suggestions:
- Strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration: Encourage in-depth cooperation among experts and scholars from different fields, such as archaeologists, historians, geologists, and art historians, to jointly unravel the mysteries of ancient jade.
- Emphasize contextual interpretation: Analyze ancient jade within its historical, social, and cultural context, avoiding isolated views of artifacts.
- Utilize technology but do not rely solely on it: Fully leverage the advantages of technological means in ancient jade authentication and traceability, but always be guided by humanistic spirit, avoiding technological worship.
- Popularize ancient jade culture: Through various forms such as exhibitions, lectures, and publications, convey the charm and deep cultural connotations of ancient jade to the public, allowing more people to understand and appreciate ancient jade.
Ancient jade is a treasure of Chinese civilization. It carries the wisdom and emotions of our ancestors, narrating the vicissitudes and glory of history. As ancient jade researchers, our mission is not only to interpret these silent artifacts but also to inherit and promote the excellent traditional Chinese culture they embody. I believe that through our unremitting efforts, the "philosophy" of ancient jade will shine with even greater brilliance in the new era.