The jade from XInJiang, after fire, has been a large area of the ooze for ochre. The body is flat, in the shape of a cloud head, with a half-moon perforation at the upper end and a ridge at the edge. The two sides are decorated differently, but both are carved with fine shade lines. The front side is carved with a long crown, extended wings, three-shaped tail, and a round bead at the mouth, surrounded by a fluttering bird-shaped moire and a flowing moire. The back is inlaid with flame-like streamer and bird moire. The decoration is very fine and smooth.

This instrument is similar to that unearthed from Kudi Huiluo tomb in Jiajiazhuang, Shouyang, Shanxi Province, and should be of the same period.

Vermilion Bird (Zhuque): The embodiment of the South and the scorching heat of summer, this mythical bird is associated with fire and the life-giving aspects of the sun. It symbolizes passion, rebirth, and immortality, inspiring creativity and the continuous pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment. 

From the collection of: The Palace Museum.

Made by Rui Xu