Network analysis of jade artifacts in Liangzhu: Exploring the relationships between Liangzhu Ancient City, Fuquanshan, and Sidun

A network analysis of jade artifacts from Liangzhu reveals that the Liangzhu culture underwent a significant shift from a centralized to a multi-centered social structure, challenging the notion of a single dominant power. The study identifies three key sites—Liangzhu Ancient City, Fuquanshan, and Sidun—as central nodes in this transition, with Liangzhu Ancient City dominating early phases, Fuquanshan emerging as a significant node in later stages, and Sidun exhibiting distinct local features. By analyzing jade artifacts, including types and combinations, the research constructs three networks: within Liangzhu society, jade artifacts symbolizing power and status, and a jade cong network, providing novel insights into the evolution of political power and social organization within the Liangzhu culture.

Hong, J., & Chen, S. (2025). Network analysis of jade artifacts in Liangzhu: Exploring the relationships between Liangzhu Ancient City, Fuquanshan, and Sidun. Journal of Archaeological Science, 184, 106398. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jas.2025.106398