For your consideration are two, beautifully crafted Chinese Bi (Jade) Discs from the late Qing (Ch'ing) Dynasty (1644-1912). Chinese bi discs are jade discs that are flat and/or carved, with circular holes in the center. Some historians interpret the bi disc as a symbol of heaven; they are frequently found with heaven and earth-like images and were handled by shamans, religious leaders of Liangzhu society who taught fundamental cosmological principles to individuals of power and privilege. While their original purpose and significance are unknown, archaeologists have discovered them buried among the deceased upper class, believed to represent heaven and the sky and follow them to the afterlife. The two bi discs included shows circular shapes and each show a hole in the center. The first is slightly smaller and shows a carved dragon effigy with the jade showing colors of black and beige. The second, slightly larger one shows geometric designs on the front and back of the piece and shows a more uniform color of tan. A small slit extends to the center circle, leaving the disc unconnected. Both show good condition overall with no signs of damage noted. They measure from 2 1/4" in diameter and 1/4" in depth, to 2" in diameter and 1/2" in depth. They have a collective weight of 72.2 grams.