A SMALL JADE DISC, BI LATE SPRING AND AUTUMN PERIOD

the jade bi disc well carved with an overall array of small raised spirals on both sides, the stone of a translucent pale honey-brown tone with dark brown and russet inclusions

Apart from a few minor old nibbles along the edges the overall condition is very good. There are slight traces of possible cinnabar on the stone.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

A slightly larger bi of similar spiral decoration, in the Hubei Provincial Museum, is illustrated in Zhongguo yuqi quanji, vol. 3, Shijiazhuang, 1993, pl. 261, together with another related bi , pl. 262. Compare also a bi unearthed from the Red Flag Machinary Factory in the Northern Suburb of Xi'an city in 1982 published in National Treasure Collection of Rare Cultural Relics of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an, 1999, p. 32, fig. 2; another, from the collection of Richard C. Bull, sold in our New York rooms, 6th December 2003, lot 181; and one sold at Christie's New York, 23rd June 1982, lot 381.

Bi shapes with wide central apertures are known from as early as the Neolithic period, and in Chinese literature the term bi is mentioned in the Zhou li (Rites of Zhou) of the 2nd century B.C. where it symbolizes Heaven.