The highly translucent oval jadeite bangle of rich emerald green colour throughout, round to the outside and flattened to the inside. Outer diameter, inner diameter and thickness measuring approximately 68.79 x 53.82 x 10.47mm. This lot contains jadeite or rubies originating in Burma (also known as Myanmar) and also articles of jewellery containing such gemstones may not be imported into the U.S. With respect to items containing any other types of gemstones originating in Burma (e.g. sapphires), such items may be imported into the U.S. provided that the gemstones were mounted or incorporated into articles of jewellery outside of Burma as long as the setting is not of a temporary nature. Loose gemstones of any type originating in Burma may not be imported into the U.S. In this regard, purchaser’s inability to import any item into the U.S. or any other country as a result of these or other restrictions shall not justify a cancellation of the sale or any delay in payment.
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Bangle of Imperial Consort
Jadeite bangles were worn as accessories when they first appeared in the Neolithic period. Until the Ming and Qing dynasties, China had been importing massive quantities of jadeite from Burma, which quickly drew a favourable reception for its bright, translucent and fine texture, and a hardness that made it comparable to the precious stones.
Bangles are classified into ping’an (peace) bangles and guifei (imperial consort) bangles depending on shape. The latter reached the height of their popularity in the Tang dynasty. Before that, most of the bangles available were ping’an bangles, with a rounded shape and cross section as well as a plain, lustrous appearance, without any lines visible on them. Characterised by an aesthetically pleasing design and sophisticated look, these bangles symbolise harmony and completeness, crystalising the yearnings for undying love. Their shape is also in line with the traditional Chinese concept that “heaven is round, and the earth is flat.”
Guifei bangles are oval in shape and flattened to the inside, designed to fit a woman’s wrist perfectly. According to legend, the bangle is named after the most beloved imperial consort of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang dynasty, Yang Guifei. Imperial consort Yang was one of the most celebrated beauties in Chinese history. So enchanting was her appeal that he lamented that “every admirable night was too short” and that he “could never see enough of her.” She also excelled in music and dance, to the delight of the emperor who regarded her as his muse. Once, the emperor advocated for foreign and Chinese music instruments to be played together in a court concert. Imperial consort Yang not only supported his idea but also commissioned craftsmen to create an extraordinary-looking jadeite bangle – small, exquisite and full of brilliance – which complemented her natural beauty. Wearing the jewellery piece, she played the pipa instrument while the emperor held a double-headed drum at the concert lasting through the night. Since then, the bangle became Yang’s favourite and its popularity caught on inside and outside the palace, lasting through the ages until now.
Jadeite bangles are hollowed out in the centre and fashioning such jewellery entails high wastage. The original jadeite boulder must be free of cracks, to ensure the bangle’s lasting quality. This is why the crafting process must be undertaken with meticulous care and skill to make the bangle look naturally formed. Due to its oval shape, a craftsman’s wisdom is put to a severe test in producing a guifei bangle.
To be offered is a rich emerald green Jade Guifei Bangle (Lot 222), exquisitely fine in texture, it is highly translucent and emits a crisp, melodious sound when lightly tapped. A tribute to unparalleled craftsmanship, the bangle’s streamlined, smooth-flowing silhouette complements its elegant, refined look, to produce a calming effect on the wearer and a highly sought-after treasure for jadeite connoisseurs.