Carved Lavender-Gray and Brown Hardstone Melon Group with Vine and Leaves
Name/Title
Carved Lavender-Gray and Brown Hardstone Melon Group with Vine and LeavesEntry/Object ID
SC0303Description
Chinese carved ornamental hardstone group depicting a large melon or gourd surrounded by smaller fruits, scrolling vines, tendrils and leaves. Worked substantially in the round with pierced and undercut elements, the carving exploits the stone's natural coloration: the principal fruit is rendered in pale, translucent lavender-gray to gray-white stone, while contrasting olive-brown to russet zones are incorporated into portions of the foliage and peripheral decoration. The fruiting-vine composition belongs broadly to the Chinese auspicious decorative tradition associated with abundance, fertility, and numerous descendants. Exact mineral composition and date remain undetermined.Type of Sculpture
Free StandingArtwork Details
Medium
Appears to be jadeite or nephrite pebble stoneSubject
Floral or animalCategory
Chinese carved stone
Made/Created
Artist
Maker presently unidentifiedTime Period
20th CenturyEthnography
Cultural Region
Continent
AsiaCulture/Tribe
Chinese