Armlet
Unknown Artist
1897
Medium
Nephrite
Dimensions
H. 3 1/8 in. (7.9 cm); W. 3/8 in. (1 cm)
Classification
Jade
Culture
France
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Heber R. Bishop, 1902
Accession Number
02.18.804
Art Historical Context
This delicate armlet, crafted in 1897 by an unknown artist, exemplifies the allure of nephrite jade in late 19th-century European artistry. Measuring just 3 1/8 inches (7.9 cm) in height and 3/8 inch (1 cm) wide, its slender, curving form suggests it was designed as an elegant bangle or cuff, perfect for adorning the upper arm. Nephrite, a tough and resilient variety of jade prized for its smooth, waxy translucency and subtle green hues, was meticulously carved to highlight the stone's natural beauty, showcasing the precision required in working such a hard material. Housed in the Metropolita...