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ID #SA1232127
FOR SALE
£650
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Late 19th Century Chinese Carved Soapstone Shoulao Figure, C.1890
For sale by Ritas Bazaar
for sale €761     $826
£650

Ritas Bazaar

Sellingantiques Verified Since Nov 2025
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Id #SA1232127
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Late 19th Century Chinese Carved Soapstone Shoulao Figure, C.1890

19th century
For Sale by Ritas Bazaar
Description

A substantial late 19th-century Chinese carved soapstone figure of Shoulao, the traditional God of Longevity, dating from circa 1890.

The immortal is depicted with his characteristic high domed forehead, long beard and serene expression, holding a peach of immortality in one hand and a tall gnarled staff in the other. His long layered robes are deeply carved and incised with stylised shou (壽) longevity characters. The staff rises behind the figure into an elaborate pierced and reticulated root-like terminal, adding considerable depth to the composition. The pale cream-grey soapstone displays natural variations in beige and grey tones, while the face, hands, peach and folds of the robes are finely detailed.

The figure is raised on a separately carved dark reddish-brown stone base formed as rugged pierced rockwork, providing a strong contrast with the lighter soapstone above.

Sizes:

Overall height: 39 cm

Height without base: 32 cm

Width: 16 cm

Depth: 11 cm

Weight: approximately 3,700 g

Condition:

A small surface scratch to the back of the head and a small chip to the rear of the belt. Otherwise in excellent antique condition.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. Shipping costs include handling, packaging and postage.

Physical Dimensions
Height
32cm (12.60")
Width
16cm (6.30")
Depth
11cm (4.33")
Declaration

Ritas Bazaar has dated this Carved Soapstone Shoulao Figure to the 1890s.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA1232127
Dealers Internal Reference
B1853
Description
A substantial late 19th-century Chinese carved soapstone figure of Shoulao, the traditional God of Longevity, dating from circa 1890.
“
The immortal is depicted with his characteristic high domed forehead, long beard and serene expression, holding a peach of immortality in one hand and a tall gnarled staff in the other.
Ritas Bazaar

His long layered robes are deeply carved and incised with stylised shou (壽) longevity characters. The staff rises behind the figure into an elaborate pierced and reticulated root-like terminal, adding considerable depth to the composition. The pale cream-grey soapstone displays natural variations in beige and grey tones, while the face, hands, peach and folds of the robes are finely detailed.

fig 1. A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base.
fig 1. Late 19th Century Chinese Carved Soapstone Shoulao Figure, C.1890

The figure is raised on a separately carved dark reddish-brown stone base formed as rugged pierced rockwork, providing a strong contrast with the lighter soapstone above.

Sizes:

Overall height: 39 cm

Height without base: 32 cm

fig 2. A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base.
fig 2. Late 19th Century Chinese Carved Soapstone Shoulao Figure, C.1890

Width: 16 cm

Depth: 11 cm

Weight: approximately 3,700 g

Condition:

A small surface scratch to the back of the head and a small chip to the rear of the belt. Otherwise in excellent antique condition.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. Shipping costs include handling, packaging and postage.

Height
32cm (12.60")
Width
16cm (6.30")
Depth
11cm (4.33")
Date of Manufacture

Ritas Bazaar has dated this Carved Soapstone Shoulao Figure to the 1890s.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA1232127
Dealers Internal Ref
B1853
Ritas Bazaar
Sellingantiques verified Since Nov 2025
Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Ritas Bazaar Profile Page

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A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base.
1 / 13
Archive I A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base.

Late 19th Century Chinese Carved Soapstone Shoulao Figure, C.1890

Archive II A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base. View II
Archive III A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base. View III
Archive IV A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base. View IV
Archive V A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base. View V
Archive VI A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base. View VI
Archive VII A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base. View VII
Archive VIII A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base. View VIII
Archive IX A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base. View IX
Archive X A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base. View X
Archive XI A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base. View XI
Archive XII A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base. View XII
Archive XIII A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base. View XIII
Enlarged Archival View

Ritas Bazaar
Telephone 07938 910153
Location
Hertfordshire
United Kingdom
Dealer Profile Page sellingantiques.co.uk/ritasbazaar
Verified Since Nov 2025
Items For Sale 253
Items Sold 55
Ritas Bazaar
Verified Since Nov 2025
View Dealer Info
Location: Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
Profile: sellingantiques.co.uk/ritasbazaar
Verified
Nov 2025
For Sale
253
Sold
55
A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base.
Late 19th Century Chinese Carved Soapstone Shoulao Figure, c.1890
Ref: SA1232127
A late 19th-century carved pale soapstone figure of Shoulao holding a peach and staff, standing on a dark stone pierced rockwork base.
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Archival Detail

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing
  • ObjectSculptures & Statues
  • Period19th century
  • StyleQing Dynasty
  • MaterialSoapstone, Stone
  • ColourCream and Brown
  • MotifsShoulao figure, Peach of longevity, Gnarled staff, Pierced rockwork base
  • SizeH 32 cm (13 in) x W 16 cm (6 in) x D 11 cm (4 in)

This late 19th-century Chinese carved soapstone figure depicts Shoulao, the traditional God of Longevity, dating from circa 1890 in the Qing Dynasty style. The cream-grey stone shows natural variations in beige and grey, complemented by a separately carved dark reddish-brown stone base formed as rugged pierced rockwork. The immortal has a high domed forehead, long beard, and serene expression, holding a peach in one hand and a tall gnarled staff in the other. His layered robes display deep carving, incised longevity characters, and fine detailing on the face, hands, and folds, while the staff rises into an elaborate reticulated root-like terminal. A small surface scratch marks the back of the head, and a small chip sits at the rear of the belt. Measuring 39 cm high overall with the base, 32 cm high without the base, 16 cm wide, and 11 cm deep, the sculpture weighs approximately 3,700 g. This piece sits well on a bookshelf in a gentleman's library or study, adding sculptural character to traditional interior shelving.

FAQs

Shoulao is the Daoist deity of longevity, traditionally depicted with a high forehead, holding a peach of immortality and a gnarled walking staff. Figures representing Shoulao became widespread decorative motifs during the Ming and Qing dynasties as symbols of long life and good fortune.

Craftsmen during the Qing dynasty frequently utilised soft stones such as soapstone (steatite), jade, bamboo, and various hardwoods. Soapstone was preferred for intricate detail work due to its workable composition and variety of natural colour tones.

Authentic late 19th-century soapstone features hand-carved details, including visible tool marks, undercut details on drapery or bases, and natural surface patination. Comparative examination of stone softness, stylistic features, and hand-fitted pierced bases also assists in identification.

Chinese soapstone carvings function well as sculptural accents on bookshelves, mantelpieces, or side tables. Grouping them with textural ceramics, brass objects, or framed works of art creates visual contrast within both traditional and modern eclectic interiors.

Soapstone should be dusted regularly with a soft dry brush or microfiber cloth. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners and immersion in water; an occasional gentle wipe with a damp cloth followed by immediate drying will maintain the surface integrity.
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