Item #2259: Ming Cong

Ming (1368-1644) cong made of mottled nephrite jade. It is in the evolved form of a cong. A cong was, in neolithic times, a ritualistic jade item that was square on the outside and had a columnar hole through the center. This and the jade bi were used in religious ceremonies, especially for the purposes of fertility, rain production and the well being of the tribe. This piece, however, has four protecting bars on the outside of the column and is only reminiscent of the earlier item. It is not intended as a ritualistic piece, but is what would be called a scholar's toy - something that is archaistic in feeling but yet reflecting perhaps the taste or view of a Ming scholar. size: HEIGHT: 1 IN. DIAMETER: 1.5 IN.