Antique Chinese Carved Soapstone Brush Washer Urn Monkeys Bird Scholar Desk

Intricately hand-carved antique Chinese soapstone scholar's brush washer (or open vessel/urn). Crafted from natural steatite with warm amber, terracotta, and soft peach tones. The piece features a central oval vessel incised with low-relief floral branches (peonies/prunus blossoms), flanked by high-relief, hand-carved figures: a bird perched on the left, a monkey climbing the right, and a deeply carved openwork base with traditional rockwork perforations. Used historically on a Chinese scholar's desk for calligraphy, brush washing, or small trinkets. Details ◆ Origin: China (Late Qing Dynasty to Early Republic Period, c. 1890s–1930s) ◆ Material: Hand-carved natural soapstone / steatite ◆ Motif: Central Floral Urn, Monkey, Bird, and Openwork Rockwork Base ◆ Design: Single hollow vessel / brush washer Condition Report ◆ Overall: Great antique condition consistent with age. ◆ Carvings: Intricate openwork carving remains intact with sharp details on the figures and floral incising. ◆ Material: Natural inclusions, color variations, and micro-fissures inherent to genuine carved soapstone. ◆ Imperfections: Light surface shelf wear on the flat underside base. No major repairs noted. (Please review all photos for complete visual condition).