A RARE CELADON WITH BLACKISH RUSSET JADE 'MASK' PLAQUE 新石器时期 石家河文化 青白玉神人纹牌饰 China, Neolithic period, Shijiahe culture (2500-2000 BC) One side of the jade plaque is intricately and subtly carved in low relief to depict an anthropomorphic ritual face, likely representing a divine or shamanic figure. The plaque is nearly rectangular in shape and extremely slim in profile. There are two perforations along the upper edge and three along the lower edge, with varying diameters, possibly intended for suspension. Made of celadon jade, the piece shows areas of dark brown and black alteration, with white, cotton-like inclusions visible within the stone Size.7.8x4.1cm Provenance: A private collection from Taiwan, acquired since the 1990s 台湾藏家旧藏，购于1990年代 Note The Shijiahe culture, dating from approximately 2500 to 2000 BCE, was a prominent Neolithic culture located in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River, primarily in present-day Hubei Province, China. It is known for its well-organized settlements, advanced agricultural practices, and highly developed jade craftsmanship. Among the most remarkable artifacts unearthed from Shijiahe sites are jade objects that reflect a complex ritual and symbolic system, particularly those featuring anthropomorphic motifs. One of the most distinctive types of Shijiahe jade is the anthropomorphic jade face plaque, believed to represent deified or shamanic figures. These plaques are typically thin and rectangular, with finely carved facial features including prominent eyes, a T-shaped nose, and an H-shaped mouth exposing detailed teeth, often rendered with delicate incised lines. The craftsmanship reflects both technical sophistication and spiritual significance, suggesting their use in ceremonial contexts or as objects of worship. Such jade face motifs are unique within Neolithic China and offer critical insight into the ritual life and belief systems of the Shijiahe people.