A very old, possibly Neolithic, Liangzhu-style green and russet jadeite Cong, measuring 11.5 cm (4.5") in height. This is carved from a single piece of dark olive-green stone which has oxidized over time. There are 3 "layers" to the Cong: the rectangle or cube representing Earth, the central hand-bored tunnel representing Heaven, and the horizontal etchings with 6 pairs of eyes per side, representing Mankind, specifically watchful ancestors! The precise use of the Cong in ancient China is unknown, but most likely was for ritual ceremonies or as powerful amulets. This particular Cong was too heavy to wear, however, and was likely placed on a ceremonial table. Liangzhu was the last neolithic jade culture of the Yangtze delta.