Soapstone carving was and still is a popular form of Chinese Carving. The colors of soapstone vary a great deal. It can be subtle, like the combination of tan and rust here, or it can be brilliant with deep reds and browns. The variety of colors orange from beige, tan, rust , brown to white, grey, and black. The softness of the stone is an excellent material for the carver’s knife which can turn a stone into a sheet of lacy leaves and flowers.
The two part soapstone carving is a bold attempt at carving lotus blossoms on a vase, different from the more intricately carved chrysanthemums. The opening of the vase resembles the curvy outlines of a lotus leave. One side of the vase has spines radiating from a stem that is attached. It is a nice departure to feature lotus blossoms that is symbolic of Buddhism. The lotus represents purity, despite growing from muddy soil.
Dating: 1950's
Dimensions: 6.5 inches wide, 4 inches deep and 10 inches high