Chinese Hardstone Inkstand

1. Form and Construction

• Body (Inkwell Vessel): The central carved element is shaped like a tubular vase, which functions as the inkwell. This vessel is topped with a hinged lid and finial.
• Base: The vessel is mounted onto a separate, round base.
• Trim: The edge of the round base is accented with a metal fitting—a brass trim.

1. Materials and Decorative Elements

• Hardstone (Body & Base): The primary material is a high-quality, finely carved hardstone in a light green/celadon color (likely Nephrite Jade or Serpentine), consistent with traditional Chinese lapidary work.
  • The relief carving on the body depicts stylized foliage motifs wrapping around the cylindrical surface.
• Accents (Feet & Finial):
  • Feet: The inkstand is supported by four small, round ball feet made of a deep red stone (plausibly Carnelian, Red Jasper, or Agate).
  • Finial: The lid is topped with a central finial also made of the matching red stone.
• Metal Mounts: The piece features a curved brass pen holder attached to the front edge of the round base.

III. Style and Context

• Style: Chinese Export Ware (Late Qing Dynasty / Early Republic). The fusion of the traditional Chinese carved stone vessel form with the Western-style brass pen holder confirms its creation specifically for the export market.
• Age: Circa 1890–1910. The quality of the carving, the use of hardstone, and the style of the metal fittings place it within the period of peak interest in Chinese decorative arts by Western Grand Tour and aristocratic collectors.