Perfumer China, early 20th century.Jade NephriteMeasures: 12.5 x 9.5 x 3 cm.Chinese perfumer carved in nephrite jade in light green tone. It has a decoration of organic inspiration developing in relief with openwork and chiseled motifs. Jade is the type of hard stone most used and appreciated in China since the Neolithic period for the realization of sculptures. It is a material extraordinarily appreciated for its hardness, its resistance, its delicate shades ranging from green to pure white and its translucent quality. During the Han dynasty, for example, members of the high aristocracy and royalty were buried in jade receptacles, which, it was believed, would preserve body and soul for eternity. Jade also had various uses in medicine and alchemy.