Historical and Cultural Significance of Hotan Jade: The Glorious Chapter of He Shi Bi in the Warring States Period

In the 5,000 years of Chinese history, Hotan jade, with its unique texture and beauty, carries rich cultural connotations, leaving behind countless captivating stories. Among them, the famous He Shi Bi from the Warring States period was crafted from Hotan jade. After the unification of the six states by Qin, He Shi Bi became the first imperial seal in Chinese history, witnessing the turbulent era of that time.

I. Texture and Beauty of Hotan Jade

Hotan jade, cherished for its delicate texture, warm luster, and graceful shapes, has won the affection of people. Its vibrant colors include pure white like mutton fat and deep green resembling the sky. With diverse forms, it is carved into ornaments or polished into practical items such as pen holders, jade bowls, and cups. The warm and smooth texture of Hotan jade provides a sense of tranquility and elegance.

II. The Legend of He Shi Bi in the Warring States Period

The legend of He Shi Bi dates back to the Warring States period, where a man named He from the Chu state obtained an uncut jade from the Chu mountains and presented it to King Li. Initially mistaken for an ordinary stone, He was punished by having his left foot amputated. After King Li's death and the succession of King Wu, He presented the jade again. Once more, it was deemed a stone, and his right foot was amputated. With the ascension of King Wen, He embraced the uncut jade and wept beneath the Chu mountains for three days and nights, tears turning into blood. Upon learning the reason, King Wen had the jade examined, revealing its true value and naming it "He Shi Bi." He Shi Bi became a treasure of Chu, not easily revealed to others. Later, Chu sought a marriage alliance with Zhao, bringing He Shi Bi to Zhao. The most famous story related to He Shi Bi is the idiom "完璧归赵" (Wan Bi Gui Zhao), originating from the Warring States period when Lin Xiangru brought the flawless He Shi Bi back to the Zhao capital, Handan, from the Qin state.

After the unification of the six states by Qin, the priceless He Shi Bi became a war trophy, carved by the First Emperor into the imperial seal, symbolizing imperial authority and status. The national treasure, the imperial jade seal, was used for issuing decrees, rewarding meritorious subjects, and other important occasions. Bian He and his He Shi Bi influenced Chinese history and even impacted Chinese jade culture.

III. Cultural Connotations of Hotan Jade in History

Hotan jade not only possesses a unique texture and beauty but also carries rich cultural connotations. In ancient times, it was considered an auspicious object, frequently used in rituals, ceremonial objects, and ornaments. It symbolized nobility, elegance, and auspiciousness, embodying people's aspirations for a beautiful life and prayers for peace and good fortune. Simultaneously, Hotan jade serves as a symbol of power, representing the dignity and nobility of imperial authority.

IV. Modern Hotan Jade Market

With the development of the times, the Hotan jade market has undergone significant changes. Today, the price of Hotan jade has skyrocketed, becoming a hot topic in the world of collectors. However, for modern individuals, the significance of Hotan jade extends beyond economic value. It continues to represent traditional cultural connotations such as nobility, elegance, and auspiciousness, serving as an important carrier for people pursuing a quality life and inheriting traditional culture.

Conclusion: Hotan jade, with its unique texture and beauty, carries rich cultural connotations. From the He Shi Bi of the Warring States period to the imperial seal of the Qin Dynasty, the history and culture of Hotan jade have accompanied China's developmental journey. In modern society, Hotan jade still symbolizes traditional cultural connotations like nobility, elegance, and auspiciousness, becoming an important carrier for people pursuing a quality life and inheriting traditional culture. Whether for collectors or the general public, understanding the historical and cultural aspects of Hotan jade, savoring its unique charm, is a rare cultural enjoyment.

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