Three Monkeys and Vases Carving
Sculpture/Decorative Art • Chinese artisan, likely from the Qingtian or Shoushan carving schools
Style & Movement
Traditional Chinese Folk Art / Decorative Export Art
Medium & Technique
Hand-carved Soapstone (Steatite) showcasing subtractive carving and openwork piercing
Creation Period
Late 19th to Mid-20th Century (Qing Dynasty style or early Republic period)
Dimensions & Format
Horizontal landscape format, approximately 15-20 cm in length
Subject Description
Three rounded vases or brush pots connected by a rockwork base, featuring monkeys playing among openwork lingzhi fungus or perforated garden rocks; symbolizes longevity and cleverness
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; shows natural inclusion lines and surface wear consistent with age
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $400 USD
Auction Estimate
$100 - $300 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired as a decorative export item or tourist ware; no visible inscriptions are present in the image
Art Historical Significance
Reflects the late imperial Chinese tradition of small-scale stone carving intended for the scholar's desk or the international export market
Notable Features
Intricate 'pierced' rockwork base (Linglong) and the use of the stone's natural variegated tan-to-ochre coloration to highlight the animal figures
Condition Issues
Minor surface abrasions, potential waxy residue, and natural fissures inherent to the soft stone material
Conservation Recommendations
Clean with a soft, dry cloth; avoid chemical detergents or immersion in water; display away from direct high-heat sources to prevent cracking