Yupei (Chinese: 玉佩; pinyin: Yùpèi) is a generic term for jade pendants.[1] Yupei were popular even before Confucius was born.[2]: 18 Jade culture is an important component of Chinese culture,[1] reflecting both the material and spiritual culture.[3]: 18 Jade is deeply ingrained in Chinese culture and played a role in every aspect of social life;[3]: 18 it is also associated with positive qualities and aspects such as purity, excellence, and harmony.[4]: 20 [5]: 94 Jade is even more valued than gold in Chinese culture.[5]: 94 The history of the art of jade carving in China to make ornaments, including dress ornaments, extends back to before 5000 BC.[6][7] Ancient Chinese held even greater importance to yupei after it was regarded as a moral integrity by Confucius.[2]: 18 Yupei could be used as belt or waist ornaments (such as jinbu 禁步)[1] and as necklaces which appeared as early as the Liangzhu culture.[8]: 39 Strings of jade pendant are also used to decorate headwear, such as the mianguan.[9]
Quick Facts Chinese, Literal meaning ...
Yupei |
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A jade pendant composed of gold, amethyst, seed pearls and carved green jade, Qing dynasty |
Chinese | 玉佩 |
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Literal meaning | Jade pendant |
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