A Dilemma in Jade

Many jade collectors are so committed to their collections that selling a special piece would be like selling one of their children. I am no exception. To sell or not to sell. This is the dilemma that faces me about an exceptional matched pair of antique 18th century Qing Dynasty white nephrite bangle bracelets. They are simply exquisite, very rare, and of historical significance.  The bangles are rendered from a single river pebble of white Khotan nephrite jade. The exterior is incised with a pattern of interlocking C-shaped scrolls dating back to the Warring States period (475 - 221 BC) and is an abstracted dragon pattern. The subject matter, material and workmanship suggest a Kangxi period date. 

These bangles are a good example of the archaistic tradition or fanggu. The antiquarian spirit that inspired the scholars and court during the Song and Ming Dynasties encouraged the Imperial workshops to follow the styles and specifications recorded in ancient documents. The artists created works of art that offered their own interpretation of ancient forms and motifs with a nod to the 18th century taste.

With the current desire of Chinese people to regain their cultural heritage, is this the time to sell? I know I will never find another pair like this. They are museum quality. Should they be donated to a museum? That thought has certainly occurred to me, but they would likely be locked away from sight in some museum basement and not be enjoyed. Jade this exquisite deserves to be visited, admired, and fondled on a daily basis by someone who truly appreciates it. And so, the dilemma continues. In the meantime, they are shared here to be discovered.

Width: 1-3/8 inches
Inside Diameter: 58 mm
18th Century, Qing Dynasty
White Nephrite Jade with a Russet Hue

To see other antique jades I am offering for sale, please visit my shop, Elegant Artifacts 
www.ElegantArtifacts.etsy.com