Describing the Jadeite Cabbage

The Jadeite Cabbage is one of the most famous and beloved treasures of Chinese art. Carved from a single piece of jadeite, this sculpture beautifully resembles a cabbage, symbolizing purity and simplicity. These simple sentences will help describe and talk about this delicate piece of art.

Scene 1: Asking About the Jadeite Cabbage

What is the Jadeite Cabbage?
翠玉白菜是什么？
Cuìyù báicài shì shénme?

It’s a jade carving that looks like a cabbage.
它是一件像白菜的玉雕。
Tā shì yī jiàn xiàng báicài de yùdiāo.

Where is it displayed?
它在哪里展出？
Tā zài nǎlǐ zhǎnchū?

It’s displayed in the National Palace Museum in Taipei.
它在台北故宫博物院展出。
Tā zài Táiběi Gùgōng Bówùyuàn zhǎnchū.

Scene 2: Describing Its Features

The cabbage looks so real!
这棵白菜看起来真逼真！
Zhè kē báicài kànqǐlái zhēn bīzhēn!

Yes, it’s carved with incredible detail.
是的，它雕刻得非常精细。
Shì de, tā diāokè de fēicháng jīngxì.

What is it made of?
它是用什么材料做的？
Tā shì yòng shénme cáiliào zuò de?

It’s made from jadeite, a type of jade.
它是用翡翠雕刻的，一种玉石。
Tā shì yòng fěicuì diāokè de, yī zhǒng yùshí.

Scene 3: Discussing Its Symbolism

Does the cabbage have any special meaning?
这棵白菜有什么特别的意义吗？
Zhè kē báicài yǒu shénme tèbié de yìyì ma?

Yes, it symbolizes purity and fertility.
是的，它象征着纯洁和丰饶。
Shì de, tā xiàngzhēngzhe chúnjié hé fēngráo.

What about the grasshopper on the cabbage?
白菜上的蝗虫有什么意义？
Báicài shàng de huángchóng yǒu shénme yìyì?

The grasshopper represents prosperity and growth.
蝗虫象征着繁荣和成长。
Huángchóng xiàngzhēngzhe fánróng hé chéngzhǎng.