It is an interesting concept of a mythical creature climbing down a vase, as if the vase is magical and contains such a magnificent creature. The soapstone is smoothly polished showing off the darker and lighter colors all within the same stone. The vase is in the shape of a double gourd. It is fitted with a brown stone base. Double gourd is recognized as a magical container. One of the Eight Immortals Zhang Guolao is always portrayed as having a double gourd container. Whenever he needed a ride, he would shake the double gourd and his a donkey would come out to take him to his destination.
Date: Mid 20 century
Dimensions: 3.5 inches wide x 2.25 inches deep and 6 inches high
Condition: good