Given the time-consuming labor involved in shaping jades, the intricate designs and high polish of ancient pieces demonstrate the high esteem the Chinese held for this tough mineral.

An animal with a split tail emerging on the opposite side supports this vase formed from two cylinders. The artisan embellished the cylinders with spiral and plant motifs which had first appeared hundreds of years earlier. The double form itself had been cultivated for over 1,000 years. .

Courtesy of the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, gift of Arthur M. Sackler