Hello everyone, I am Zhao Yaqin. Having been involved in the jade industry for over thirty years, the study of ancient jade culture has always been a passion of mine. In recent years, with the continuous emergence of new archaeological discoveries and the increasing advancement of scientific and technological means, our understanding of ancient jade is undergoing a profound transformation. Today, I would like to share some of my latest perspectives on contemporary ancient jade research, hoping to inspire new insights.

For a long time, ancient jade research has often focused on its artifactual properties, that is, on the examination and dating of the material, craftsmanship, form, and ornamentation of jade objects. This is undoubtedly fundamental and indispensable. However, if we remain solely at the level of "object," we will miss the deeper cultural connotations embedded in ancient jade. I have increasingly come to realize that the future of ancient jade research lies in its elevation from "object" to "Dao" – that is, moving from the material level to the spiritual level, exploring the philosophical ideas, social structures, belief systems, and even cosmologies carried by ancient jade.

For instance, when we previously studied Hongshan culture jade artifacts, we often focused on their exquisite carving techniques and unique animal forms, such as jade dragons and jade pig-dragons. These undoubtedly represent the superb craftsmanship of the Hongshan people. But if we merely regard them as "beautiful objects," we cannot understand their true significance in that society. Recent research, particularly combined with archaeological discoveries at Hongshan culture sacrificial sites, has shown us that jade dragons and jade pig-dragons were not simple decorations or totems. They were likely closely related to fertility worship, ancestor worship, and shamanistic activities for communicating with heaven and earth spirits. These jade artifacts were symbols of power, belief, and cosmic order in that society, concrete manifestations of the "Dao." They were not merely jade, but microcosms of the spiritual world of that time.

Another example is the Cong (jade cylinder) of the Liangzhu culture. Its outer square and inner round shape, along with the intricate taotie (beast-face) patterns, have always been a focus of academic research. Traditional views regard them as ritual vessels for sacrifice, symbolizing the sacred power to connect heaven and earth. However, with the deepening research into Liangzhu culture settlement structures, hydraulic systems, and social stratification, we are beginning to realize that the "Dao" represented by the Cong might extend far beyond simple sacrificial functions. It could be intimately linked to the highly developed agricultural civilization of Liangzhu society, its strict hierarchical system, and a profound understanding of heaven and earth. The square and round shape of the Cong might symbolize cosmic order; the mystery of the taotie pattern might be an embodiment of the combination of divine and royal power. It was not merely a ritual object, but a comprehensive carrier of Liangzhu civilization's social organization, power dynamics, and spiritual beliefs.

These examples all demonstrate that contemporary ancient jade research requires us to step beyond the traditional scope of artifact studies, adopting a broader perspective, integrating knowledge from multiple disciplines, to provide multi-dimensional and in-depth interpretations of ancient jade. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Deep Integration of Archaeology and Ancient Jade Research: Archaeological discoveries are the cornerstone of ancient jade research. We need to pay more attention to the excavation environment of jade artifacts, co-existing artifacts, and the overall layout of sites, thereby reconstructing the true context of jade artifacts in their contemporary society.


  • Extensive Application of Scientific and Technological Means: Modern scientific and technological methods such as X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and Raman spectroscopy can help us more accurately analyze the material, origin, and manufacturing techniques of jade artifacts, providing scientific basis for dating and provenance tracing. Simultaneously, technologies like 3D scanning and computer simulation can also help us better reconstruct the original forms and usage scenarios of jade artifacts.


  • Intervention of Anthropology, Sociology, and Religious Studies: Ancient jade is a product of human social activity. We need to draw upon anthropological methods for studying primitive societies, sociological analysis of social structures and power relations, and religious studies' interpretation of belief systems and spiritual worlds, to understand the cultural significance carried by ancient jade.


  • Cross-Cultural Comparative Research: Comparing Chinese ancient jade with jade artifacts or similar material objects from other civilizations around the world can help us discover commonalities and unique characteristics in the development of human civilization, thereby gaining a deeper understanding of the uniqueness and value of Chinese ancient jade.


Of course, the transition from "object" to "Dao" is not an overnight process; it requires every researcher to maintain an open mind, be brave in exploration, and dare to question. At the same time, we should also recognize that the charm of ancient jade lies in its profound sense of history and cultural connotations. In the research process, we must not only pursue academic rigor but also focus on appreciating and inheriting the humanistic spirit embodied in ancient jade.

In summary, contemporary ancient jade research is moving from a singular artifactual analysis to a stage of interdisciplinary integration and deep cultural interpretation. We are no longer merely satisfied with "what kind of jade artifact is this," but further asking "why did this jade artifact exist, what did it represent, and what role did it play in that society?" This is not just a tracing of history but an exploration of the wisdom of human civilization.

For ancient jade enthusiasts and collectors, my advice is: when appreciating the beauty of ancient jade, consider it with more thought and inquiry. Do not just focus on its condition and value, but try to understand the stories behind it and the cultural information it carries. Because every piece of ancient jade is a silent history book, embodying the ancients' reverence for heaven and earth, their desire for life and prosperity, and their yearning for a beautiful life. Only when we truly understand the "Dao" embedded in ancient jade can we truly appreciate its infinite charm. Let us work together to make ancient jade culture shine even brighter in this new era.