During the Shang Dynasty, ancestor worship often used cattle, sheep, dogs, pigs and other domestic animals as sacrifices, and sacrificial vessels made in the image of these animals were often complex and exquisite.
This jade bull is an abstract Shang Dynasty style piece, carved from green jade in the round, lying down with four legs outward and even hooves. There are double-engraved cloud patterns and shield patterns on the body. The eyes of the jade bull are inscribed with the Chinese character "臣". The horns are embossed with "人" patterns, and there are ears on both sides of the horns. The abdomen is smooth and engraved with a five-character inscription.
The jade bull is light yellow and orange due to corrosion. The left side is dark blue due to mercury corrosion, and there are bright silver spots on the surface. The jade is warm, smooth, and has a patina. It is palm-sized and of moderate weight, very suitable for playing.
