Tongue amulet in the form of a cicada (hanchan)

This cicada shows a distinctly triangular cross-section, the highest point forming a ridge that separates the wings on the back of the insect. A dense series of hair-thin lines separates the head from the thorax. Curls embellish the joints at the wings and body. On the underside, horizontal lines mark the body segments, and C- and T-curls filled with fine cross-hatching occupy the upper half. A perforation runs the entire length from mouth to tail.

Translucent pale yellowish-white jade with yellow patches.

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Historical period(s)
Han dynasty, 1st century BCE-1st century CE
Medium
Jade (nephrite)
Dimensions
H x W x D: 4.4 x 1.9 x 0.9 cm (1 3/4 x 3/4 x 3/8 in)
Geography
China
Credit Line
Gift of Arthur M. Sackler
Collection
Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
Accession Number
S1987.745
On View Location
Currently not on view
Classification(s)
Jade
Type

Mortuary object

Keywords
China, cicada, Han dynasty (206 BCE - 220 CE), insect, protection
Provenance
Provenance research underway.
Description

This cicada shows a distinctly triangular cross-section, the highest point forming a ridge that separates the wings on the back of the insect. A dense series of hair-thin lines separates the head from the thorax. Curls embellish the joints at the wings and body. On the underside, horizontal lines mark the body segments, and C- and T-curls filled with fine cross-hatching occupy the upper half. A perforation runs the entire length from mouth to tail.

Translucent pale yellowish-white jade with yellow patches.

Published References
  • Chinese Jade Animals. Exh. cat. Hong Kong. cat. 35.
Collection Area(s)
Chinese Art
Web Resources
Google Cultural Institute
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