About this Event
Explore the profound meaning of yu (玉) in Chinese culture in this interactive lecture. Unlike Western "jade," yu represents not just beauty, but moral and spiritual depth. Delve into yu's rich history, from its Neolithic ceremonial roles to its Confucian symbolism of virtue. Discover a range of jade stones beyond nephrite and jadeite, such as serpentine and chalcedony, and learn to appreciate their qualities through hands-on identification. This session also covers regional carving styles across China. Perfect for collectors and cultural enthusiasts, this workshop offers a deeper understanding of yu’s timeless significance.
In Jaded: The True Essence of Yu 玉 in Chinese Culture, participants will delve into the fascinating world of jade, but with a crucial distinction: "jade" in English is not equivalent to the Chinese term "yu" (玉). This interactive lecture will explore the deeper meaning of yu, which has long been regarded in traditional Chinese aesthetics as embodying not only physical beauty but also moral and spiritual qualities.
The lecture will guide you through the history and cultural significance of yu, from its earliest use during the Neolithic "Jade Age" to its spiritual and ceremonial roles, and later its Confucian connections as a symbol of virtue and moral integrity. Alongside this, yu became an integral part of daily life in traditional Chinese culture, often seen in fine accessories and used as a status symbol.
One of the key elements of this workshop will be an exploration of the wide variety of stones that fall under the term yu in Chinese culture. While Western culture tends to focus on jadeite and nephrite, the Chinese concept of yu encompasses a diverse range of stones, each with its own unique qualities. Some of the most commonly recognized jade stones include:
- Nephrite (和田玉)
- Serpentine/Korean Jade (岫玉)
- Chalcedony/Agate (玉髓/玛瑙）
- Feicui/Jadeite (翡翠)
Participants will also gain hands-on experience in identifying and appreciating these stones, learning how to assess the quality of nephrite and jadeite by considering factors such as color, texture, inclusions, and skin color. You'll explore how traditional Chinese aesthetics value subtlety and natural imperfections, summarized by the idea of “If you know, you know.”
Moreover, this session will introduce you to the regional carving styles that developed across China, from the jadeite-focused Southern coastal/Teochew style to the intricate nephrite carvings of Suzhou and Yangzhou.
By the end of this session, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the true essence of yu, the rich history behind jade in Chinese culture, and the skills to appreciate these stones in both their traditional and modern contexts. Whether you're interested in jade as a collector or as someone passionate about Chinese history and culture, this session promises to deepen your appreciation for this timeless gem.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Link@AMK, 3 Ang Mo Kio Street 62, Bishan, Singapore
SGD 51.40
