Jade, since ancient times, has been the spiritual vessel of Chinese civilization. Its gentle and understated, yet resilient qualities are deeply rooted in the national spirit. However, when we discuss the evolution of modern and contemporary jade culture, we find that it is not merely an innovation in materials and craftsmanship, but a profound transformation from imperial exclusivity to public aesthetics, from traditional constraints to diversified innovation. This journey encompasses historical sedimentation, the imprints of the times, and the tireless exploration of countless artisans and connoisseurs.
In the late Qing Dynasty and early Republican era, Chinese society underwent unprecedented upheaval. Imperial jade, once a symbol of imperial power and aristocratic status, gradually dispersed among the populace with the collapse of the dynasty. This was not simply a loss, but a new beginning. At that time, Western cultural trends surged in, and traditional jade carving art faced challenges and impacts. However, it was precisely this impact that stimulated the desire for change among jade carvers. They began to incorporate the perspective and composition concepts of Western painting into jade carving, making their works more three-dimensional and lifelike. For instance, Shanghai's “Nanshi Jade Carving” emerged during this period, expanding its themes from traditional auspicious dragons and phoenixes, immortals and Buddhas, to flowers, birds, insects, fish, landscapes, and even some Western-style decorative patterns. At this time, jade articles were no longer merely ritual objects or playthings but began to develop into artworks and ornaments, becoming accessible to the general public.
During the Anti-Japanese War and the Civil War, the jade market experienced a downturn, but the inheritance of jade carving techniques never ceased. Many jade carvers held fast to their craft, even creating under difficult conditions. After the founding of New China, jade culture ushered in new development opportunities. The state attached great importance to artisans, establishing jade carving factories and research institutes, organizing scattered folk jade carvers to inherit and innovate techniques. During this period, jade carving works began to focus on reflecting the spirit of socialist construction, with a large number of themes praising working people and reflecting the new life. For example, large-scale jade carvings such as “The Great Wall” and “Immortals Celebrating Longevity” created by the Beijing Jade Carving Factory not only showcased exquisite craftsmanship but also incorporated profound national sentiments and contemporary imprints. These works, often completed through collective creation, embodied the painstaking efforts of multiple masters and became important gifts for national foreign exchanges.
After the reform and opening-up, China's economy took off, and people's material living standards significantly improved, leading to an increasing demand for spiritual and cultural enrichment. Jade culture experienced unprecedented prosperity. The introduction of the market economy revitalized the jade industry. Private jade carving studios sprang up like mushrooms, and jade carving masters began to break free from traditional themes, pursuing personalized and artistic creations. The mining and circulation of high-quality jade materials such as Xinjiang Hetian jade and Burmese jade also provided broader creative space for jade carving art. For example, contemporary jade carving masters, building upon the traditional “skillful color” technique, boldly applied modern aesthetics, cleverly combining the natural textures and color variations of jade with the carved content to create many stunning artworks. Suzhou's “Su-style” jade carving is renowned for its exquisite elegance and smooth lines, while Yangzhou's “Yang-style” is known for its grand and magnificent momentum. Various jade carving schools flourished, competing for excellence.
Into the 21st century, with the development of the internet and globalization, jade culture is deeply integrated with modern technology and fashion trends. Jade live streaming, online exhibitions, and cultural and creative products are emerging endlessly, allowing more young people to discover and fall in love with jade culture. Jade articles are no longer treasures kept in high places but have become fashionable accessories that can be integrated into daily life, and even a way of investment and financial management. However, amidst the commercial wave, we should also be wary of excessive speculation and cultural distortion. The core of true jade culture lies in adhering to the spirit of “a gentleman compares virtue to jade,” and in the pursuit of natural beauty and human goodness. It is not only a material carrier but also a spiritual sustenance.
From the transformations of the late Qing and early Republican periods, to the revival of New China, and then to the prosperity after reform and opening-up, modern and contemporary jade culture has traversed a magnificent path. It has witnessed the hardships and glories of the Chinese nation and carries people's aspirations for a better life. Today, jade culture is embracing new elements of the era with a more open and inclusive attitude, radiating new vitality. It is no longer the exclusive preserve of a few but has become a cultural bond connecting past and present, tradition and modernity, continuing to write its own legendary chapter in the new era.