This exquisitely carved old jade amulet is most likely from the Qing Dynasty (1636 – 1911 ce) reflecting work from older periods. The small heavy disk features carving on one side only, exquisitely detailed tigers or dragons. The pendant is approximately 1-1/2 by 1-1/4 inches with 3/16 inch inner diameter, and is 3/16 to 1/4 inch thick (25.4 mm/in) with 1/8 inch total carved relief. Note: A bi is a flat jade disc with a circular hole in the centre. Neolithic bi are generally undecorated, while those of later periods of China, like the Zhou Dynasty, bear increasingly ornate surface carving whose motifs represented deities associated with the sky (four directions) as well as standing for qualities and powers the wearer wanted to invoke or embody. As laboriously crafted objects, they testify to the concentration of power and resources in the hands of a small elite.

The old jade hardstone exhibits patina. From a private collection, this bi is clean, however will be sold without further restoration (as is).