Hand-carved by master jade artist Li Chunxi from Zhenping, Henan, China, this belt hook is sculpted from authentic Australian black jade. The design draws inspiration from ancient totemic motifs, blending traditional Chinese symbolism with bold, contemporary craftsmanship. The intricate mask-like face symbolizes protection, wisdom, and spiritual presence — a guardian figure rooted in history and myth. Each detail is meticulously etched, highlighting both the strength and elegance of jade as a medium.
Crafted from a piece of 2 kg Australian black jade, this contemporary interpretation preserves the essence of antiquity while showcasing modern mastery. It bridges millennia of tradition and craftsmanship, celebrating the legacy of Chinese jade culture in a bold new form.
This unique piece is masterfully carved from premium Australian black jade by Li Chunxi, a renowned jade artist based in Zhenping, Henan, China — a region celebrated for its rich jade carving heritage.
Step (1)- The work begins as a carefully selected piece of black Australian jade, free of inclusions or cracks. The artist marks out the basic design.
Step (2)- Once the rough shape is achieved, the detailed hand carving begins, with design elements added through the creative input of the artist.
Step (3) - Moving towards completion, the carving awaits hand polishing to the finish envisaged by the artist's plan.
Cultural Background of the Jade Belt Hook (仿战国兽面纹玉带钩)
This jade artwork is inspired by the jade belt hooks (玉带钩) of the Warring States period (475–221 BCE) - a time of both artistic flourishing and political upheaval in ancient China. Originally functional objects used to fasten clothing, belt hooks evolved into symbols of status, taste, and identity, often worn by nobility and high-ranking warriors.
The central beast mask motif (兽面纹) is a hallmark of ancient Chinese ritual art, believed to embody spiritual power and serve as a guardian against evil. These masks — with swirling horns, wide eyes, and symmetrical forms — reflect a deep connection to shamanic beliefs and the natural world.
Estimated price for this art piece by Li Chunxi: AUD$4,500 (RMB￥21,000)
Dimensions: Approx. 10.5 cm (L) × 6.5 cm (W) × 1.2 cm (D)
Weight: Approx. 150 g
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