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Plaque

Neolithic period, Hongshan culture (ca. 3500–2000 BCE)
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 207
The Hongshan culture, from which this plaque comes, remained unknown until the 1980s. Centered in northeastern China, it is known for large ceremonial structures built with rocks, graves lined with stone slabs, and distinctively shaped jades that were often the sole goods found in tombs. Judging from the holes on its back and on the top center, this piece may have been an ornament, however its exact function cannot be deciphered until more archaeological evidence becomes available.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Plaque
  • Period: Neolithic period, Hongshan culture (ca. 3500–2000 BCE)
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Jade (nephrite)
  • Dimensions: H. 2 7/8 in. (7.3 cm); W. 3 7/8 in. (9.8 cm)
  • Classification: Jade
  • Credit Line: Purchase, The Vincent Astor Foundation Gift, 2009
  • Object Number: 2009.176
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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