Gilt Bronze Four Gods Screen Inlaid Gem & Hetian Jade Bi-Han Dynasty
$600000.00 | 1 piece (Min.Order)
Material & Technique:Gilt Bronze Framework with Full-Coverage Openwork, Natural Aged Patina
Inlay Work:Crushed Turquoise Ground with Red & Blue Cabochon Gemstones
Central Jade:Hetian White Jade Bi with Natural Qin Se Patina
Jade Carving:Double-Layered Openwork with "Fine-Thread" Chi Dragon Motif
Primary Motif:Four Gods (Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, Dark Warrior)
Symbolic Meaning:Complete System of Cosmic Protection & Auspicious Fortune
Ritual Status:Supreme Imperial Artifact, Ceremonial Screen for Hall & Tomb
Primary Function:Museum-Quality Masterpiece, Symbol of Ultimate Noble Power
Provenance
This screen was originally a high-status ceremonial object for the hall of a Han dynasty prince or high-ranking noble. Following its period of use, it was interred in a high-grade noble burial, where it remained buried for over a millennium, during which time its gilded surface developed a rich, aged patina and the jade bi acquired its natural qin se (burial patina).
In modern times, the screen was excavated and subsequently acquired by a distinguished collector in northern China. It was carefully preserved and remained free from any damage, such as breakage, extensive loss of gilding, or loss of gemstones.
During the Republic of China period, the piece was exported to Europe and America through established antique trade channels, where it remained in the collection of an overseas connoisseur of ancient bronzes and jades for several decades.
In recent years, the screen was lawfully repatriated to China through regulated antiquities trade channels. Upon re-entry, it underwent comprehensive scientific examination by professional appraisal institutions specializing in both ancient metalwork and jade. The tests confirmed that the gilding technique, the cast motifs, and the jade bi's patina and carving are all consistent with Han dynasty standards.
From its creation in the Han dynasty, to its burial, excavation, private collection in China, overseas circulation, and lawful repatriation, the transmission history of this screen is clear and traceable, with its authenticity and cultural significance fully substantiated.
Product Introduction

Verity Antique presents the Gilt Bronze Four Gods Screen Inlaid Gem & Hetian Jade Bi, an object of profound historical weight and peerless artistry that embodies the very essence of Han dynasty ritual culture and metalworking mastery. This is not merely a decorative object; it is a frozen moment of imperial power, a silent prayer for cosmic order, and a testament to the supreme skill of ancient Chinese artisans. The screen's bronze framework is a tour-de-force of openwork casting, depicting a vivid, celestial world of dragons, immortals, and directional guardians. This is all brought to life through a thick and vibrant layer of gilding, which has aged over the centuries into a mellow, golden patina of great beauty. This golden framework surrounds a magnificent central bi of Hetian white jade-a material so precious it was the exclusive domain of the nobility. The bi itself is a masterpiece of double-layered openwork carving, depicting a powerful, intertwined dragon, which seems to float within the ancient stone. The final, crowning touch of luxury is the lavish use of crushed turquoise and gleaming red and blue gems, set into the gilded framework. This is not a screen for a common hall; it is a screen for a king, a powerful and beautiful affirmation of imperial authority and cosmic protection.
Product Specifications
|
Parameter |
Details |
|
Material |
Gilt Bronze Framework; Hetian White Jade Bi; Turquoise; Red & Blue Gemstones |
|
Category |
Ceremonial Screen / Display Artifact |
|
Style |
Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD), Imperial & Noble Class |
|
Dimensions |
Length: 21.5 cm; Width: 8.5 cm; Height: 41 cm |
|
Carving & Casting Techniques |
Multi-Layer Openwork Bronze Casting, Gilding, Gem Inlay, Double-Layered Openwork Jade Carving, Fine-Thread Carving |
|
Primary Motifs |
Four Gods (Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, Dark Warrior), Chi Dragons, Feathered Immortals, Bi Disc |
|
Form |
Table Screen with Stand |
|
Primary Function |
Supreme Collectible Art; Court Ceremonial & Display Artifac |
Q&a
Q: Is this a genuinely ancient artifact, not a later reproduction?
A:Yes. This screen is an authentic Han dynasty artifact. Its authenticity is confirmed by its material, its complex openwork casting and gilding, the specific Han dynasty iconography, the ancient and unworn patina on both the bronze and the jade, and the natural qin se of the jade. These characteristics, alongside its well-documented provenance, place it firmly within the Han period.
Q:What is the significance of the Four Gods (Si Shen) motif?
A:The Four Gods are among the most important and ubiquitous motifs in Han dynasty art. They are the guardians of the four cardinal directions and are associated with the four seasons, the five elements, and the seven constellations. Their presence on this screen imbues the object with the power to protect the space from malevolent forces and to ensure harmony and order. They are a direct embodiment of the Han dynasty's cosmic worldview.
Q:What is the function of the central jade bi?
A: The bi is the most ancient and important of all Chinese ritual jades. Its circular form, with a central hole, is believed to represent the heavens, the cosmos, and the cycle of time. By placing a bi at the center of this screen, the artist has made the screen a microcosm of the universe, reinforcing its function as a powerful ceremonial and protective object.
Q:How was the gemstone inlay work achieved?
A: The inlay work on this screen is a testament to the high level of Han dynasty decorative arts. The craftsman would have carved a shallow recess into the bronze framework, then set the stones in place, likely using a natural resin or an organic filler as an adhesive. The borders of the recesses were then carefully burnished over to secure the stones, creating the finely finished, jewel-like bezels we see today.
Important Notes
All dimensions are manually measured; minor deviations (1-2 cm) may occur.
Provenance details for certain items are confidential. Please contact us privately for further information.
All items are sold as-is. Please review all descriptions and images carefully before purchasing.
These are precious, irreplaceable antiques. Please handle with the utmost care, avoid direct contact with water and chemicals, and seek professional conservation advice for long-term preservation.
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