Qi (notched axe) with Animal-mask Design, Shang dynasty (16th-11th century BCE). Jade. Length 8.3 cm, Width 5.4 cm, Thickness 1.0 cm. © Shanghai Museum

In the Xia, Shang and Western Zhou dynasties, in order to consolidate power and regulate the rites, the rulers established a system of meaningful jades, as a result of which a series of jade ritual objects appeared. Other than sacrificial vessels, there were also some ceremonial objects in imitation of bronze weapons, which were not for practical use, but only to increase the majesty of the state on important ceremonial occasions.