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Vintage 6" Chinese Hand-Carved Grey Marbled Onyx Hardstone Archaistic Turtle Chain Vase / Scholar's Desk Object
Item Specifics:
• Primary Material: Marbled Calcite / Hardstone (Onyx Marble)
• Region of Origin: China
• Type: Vases / Scholar's Desk Objects (Inkwell / Brush Holder)
• Age: Mid-20th Century (Vintage)
• Height: Approximately 6 inches
• Weight: 1.52 lbs (Heavy, dense stone profile)
• Theme: Archaistic Turtle / Tortoise with Loose-Ring Continuous Chains
Detailed Description:
Up for sale is a beautiful, highly detailed vintage Chinese hand-carved hardstone chain vase, masterfully fashioned with an archaistic figural turtle base.
Unlike common, soft soapstone tourist replicas, this premium piece is meticulously carved from a dense, heavy calcite marble or onyx hardstone. It features a striking waxy luster with magnificent natural, smoky-grey and cream marbled veining running throughout the stone. It is exceptionally solid, weighing in at 1.52 lbs, and remains distinctly cold to the touch.
Exquisite Craftsmanship:
The most remarkable feature of this carving is the continuous loose-ring chains hanging seamlessly from the neck loops down to the turtle's back. In traditional Chinese lapidary arts, these rings are entirely hand-carved out of a single, solid block of stone—a testament to the incredible skill, patience, and precision of the artisan.
Design & Functionality:
Sculpted in the style of a traditional Chinese scholar’s desk object (literati art), the central column serves as a classical calligraphy brush holder, while the hollowed-out turtle base historically functioned as a small inkwell or water reservoir.
Condition:
The piece is in excellent vintage condition with no major chips, cracks, or repairs to the stone body or the delicate interlocking chain links. The natural mineral variations and stone matrix configurations are beautifully preserved. Please review all high-resolution photos to appreciate the intricate tool marks and the authentic character of this hand-crafted specimen.
A stunning addition to any collection of Asian art, fine mineral carvings, or mid-century curiosities.
Shipping & Handling:
Will be packed with extreme care, heavily bubble-wrapped, and securely double-boxed to ensure safe arrival. Ships promptly within 1 business day.
