Jade Jewelry. Phoenix (fenghuang). China. Ming Dynasty, 16th Century.

This small Fenghuang is delicately carved from celadon-white jade; the carving is bold, leaving only the bare minimum of material to prevent the sculpture from breaking. The imperial bird, a symbol of the Empress of China, is depicted in mid-flight. It is pierced with tiny holes through which threads were likely threaded to secure it to a piece of fabric; its small size and light weight suggest that these tiny phoenixes were sewn onto a crown or a court headdress. The Fenghuang symbolizes virtue and prosperity. It is possible that this was part of the Empress’s headdress, as the craftsmanship is of the highest quality; however, high-ranking court ladies were also permitted to wear the imperial Fenghuang. This style of carving was practiced in China during the Yuan dynasty, continuing into the early Ming period; we therefore date this small sculpture to the 16th century or earlier. Our collection includes seven other Fenghuang, three of identical size and four smaller ones, which we can offer upon request. Approximately 36 mm. This model was recently copied, but the quality is poor; the forgers’ hands are unsteady, and the carvings are “rough.”