Distinguished colleagues and fellow collectors, I am Zhao Yaqin. Having dedicated over thirty years to the jade industry, I deeply understand that the beauty of ancient jades lies not only in their warm texture and exquisite craftsmanship, but more profoundly, in the rich heritage of Chinese civilization they embody. Today, I wish to share some of my latest insights into the study of ancient jade culture, hoping to offer new inspiration to everyone.
In recent years, with advancements in technology and the rise of interdisciplinary research, the study of ancient jades is undergoing a profound transformation. We are no longer content with merely describing the forms, patterns, and alterations of ancient jades. Instead, we strive to "listen" to ancient jades tell their secrets across time through deeper analysis.
Firstly, I want to emphasize the tracing of "cultural genes." Every piece of ancient jade encapsulates the aesthetic concepts, social systems, religious beliefs, and even the productivity levels of a specific historical period. Taking Hongshan culture jades as an example, their unique C-shaped dragons and hooked cloud-shaped artifacts are not merely simple artistic creations. They are closely linked to the totem worship and fertility cults of the primitive agricultural society of that time. Through archaeological analysis of excavated sites, combined with findings from ethnology and anthropology, we can more accurately interpret these "cultural genes" and understand the function and significance of ancient jades in their contemporary society. For instance, the jade pig-dragon unearthed at the Niuheliang site in Jianping, Liaoning, its form corroborates with the pig bone remains found locally, revealing the significant position of pigs in the spiritual world of the Hongshan people. It was likely a sacred ritual object, rather than a simple ornament.
Secondly, there is the deciphering of "craftsmanship codes." The ancient art of jade carving remains astonishing even today. How were such exquisite results achieved in cutting, drilling, and polishing high-hardness jade material? Behind this lies the ancients' profound understanding of tools, materials, and techniques. In the past, we largely relied on empirical judgment. Now, with the application of high-precision microscopes, spectral analysis, X-ray diffraction, and other technologies, we can perform microscopic analysis of the processing marks on jade artifacts and even simulate the ancient jade carving process. For example, detailed research on Liangzhu culture cong jades reveals that the tiny, barely visible刻痕 on their surfaces might have been created by repeatedly grinding with extremely fine quartz sand or diamond powder as abrasive, in conjunction with bamboo and wooden tools. This deciphering of "craftsmanship codes" is not only a tribute to ancient wisdom but also provides valuable clues for understanding the level of ancient technological development.
Furthermore, there is the reconstruction of the "value system." The value of ancient jades is by no means solely reflected in their market price. Their historical, artistic, scientific, and cultural values collectively constitute their unique charm. Driven by the market economy, the commercial attributes of ancient jades are often overly amplified, leading some to focus only on economic returns while neglecting their deeper cultural connotations. I believe that as researchers and enthusiasts of ancient jades, we have a responsibility to guide the public in establishing correct values for ancient jades. A damaged piece with poor condition but significant archaeological importance may possess academic value far exceeding a beautiful "heirloom" piece lacking clear excavation information. We should encourage museums and research institutions to strengthen the collection, preservation, and research of ancient jades, allowing more people to touch the pulse of Chinese civilization through them.
Finally, I want to discuss the "cross-disciplinary integration" in ancient jade research. Future ancient jade research will inevitably be a product of multidisciplinary integration. History, archaeology, art history, materials science, computer science, and even psychology and sociology will all play important roles in ancient jade research. For example, using 3D scanning and virtual reality technology, we can create high-precision models of ancient jades, restore their original appearance, and even simulate their role in ancient ritual scenes, bringing ancient jades "to life." Through big data analysis, we can sort through massive amounts of ancient jade data, discover the intrinsic connections between jades from different regions and periods, and construct a more comprehensive cultural map of ancient jades.
In summary, the study of ancient jade culture is at a time full of opportunities. We are no longer merely "treasure appraisers," but rather "detectives of history" and "decoders of culture." Looking to the future, I suggest:
- Strengthening Fundamental Research: Continuously invest in archaeological excavations and organization of ancient jade sites, providing solid first-hand data for ancient jade research.
- Promoting Technological Innovation: Actively introduce and develop advanced scientific technologies to enhance the analysis and testing capabilities of ancient jades, deciphering more "craftsmanship codes."
- Fostering Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Encourage experts and scholars from different fields to work together, jointly exploring the cultural connotations of ancient jades and broadening research perspectives.
- Popularizing Cultural Education: Through exhibitions, lectures, publications, and other diverse forms, disseminate knowledge about ancient jades to the public, enhancing nationwide understanding and appreciation of ancient jade culture.
Ancient jades are treasures of the Chinese nation and witnesses to history. Let us work together with a more professional attitude and a broader vision to explore the mysteries of ancient jades, allowing these dialogues across time to radiate new brilliance today, and contribute our strength to the inheritance and development of Chinese civilization. Thank you all.