Antique Chinese Carved Jade Archaistic Chicken-Heart Shape Pendant. Han Style. Carved On The Edges Are Kylins, The Interior With Scrolling Designs. Cream Color With Brown Inclusions. Finely Carved With Exquisite Details And A Soft Polish And Patina. Ming Dynasty Or Earlier. Approximately 3 1/4" High x 2 1/4" Wide.
Notes:
Ancient prototype: The form ultimately derives from the she (韘), an archery thumb guard.
The “chicken heart” terminology: The name refers to the characteristic heart-like central opening/form.
Ming revival: Ming carvers frequently revived Han and earlier forms as part of the period's taste for archaistic objects.
The decoration can include chi dragons, phoenixes, clouds, and scrolling designs.
Form: The characteristic shape is a flattened, shield/heart-like pendant with a pointed or tapered upper end and a prominent central perforation.
