Elizabeth Hubert Malott Hall of Jades - Field Museum

Jade can be carved with detailed patterns. This design from the Qing period (AD 1644–1911) takes inspiration from ancient Bronze Age vessels.

When a stone is not just a stone.

Learn about the history and importance of jade in Chinese culture, and see its role change over time.

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Included with Basic admission

Targeted age groups

All ages

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Image for Elizabeth Hubert Malott Hall of Jades

Exhibition Highlights

Ceremonial jade objects used in Neolithic burials

Status symbols displayed by Bronze Age kings and warriors

Qing dynasty pieces commissioned by imperial patronage

Modern jade pieces inspired by traditional forms

View of the inside of the Malott Hall of Jades. A prominent sign with the Chinese character for “jade” is visible in the foreground.

In the Qing period (AD 1644–1911), decorated snuff bottles emerged as a new art form. Snuff, a powdered form of tobacco, became popular in China during the 1600s.

In the Qing period (AD 1644–1911), decorated snuff bottles emerged as a new art form. Snuff, a powdered form of tobacco, became popular in China during the 1600s.

Jade animals were buried in tombs of wealthy Chinese people for many centuries. By the Six Dynasties period (AD 265–589), this practice was disappearing, but jade animals like this tiny horse from the Qing dynasty (AD 1644–1911) remained popular as objects simply to be enjoyed.

Jade animals were buried in tombs of wealthy Chinese people for many centuries. By the Six Dynasties period (AD 265–589), this practice was disappearing, but jade animals like this tiny horse from the Qing dynasty (AD 1644–1911) remained popular as objects simply to be enjoyed.

Quiz

What is jade?

A rock

A stone

Explore More

Ticketing

Included with Basic admission

Targeted age groups

All ages

Ticket Information