Antique Chinese Carved Soapstone Double Brush Washer Scholar’s Desk Group C.1920

A substantial antique Chinese carved soapstone scholar’s desk group, probably dating to the early 20th century, circa 1910–1930.

Carved from a large piece of naturally variegated soapstone, the composition incorporates two separate vessel forms set within an elaborate pierced rocky landscape. These were most likely intended as brush washers, water coupes or related scholar’s desk receptacles used in connection with traditional Chinese painting and calligraphy.

The carving is populated with several lizard or gecko-like creatures crawling across and between the vessels, together with a dark-coloured bird or waterfowl figure incorporated into the second vessel. The natural darker areas of the stone have been deliberately used to emphasise the animals and other decorative elements.

Both vessels are further enriched with lightly incised floral and foliate decoration, while the surrounding rockwork is extensively pierced and drilled to create a rugged grotto-like setting.

The stone displays attractive natural colour variation from pale cream and beige through pinkish-brown to dark grey and black inclusions, giving the carving considerable visual interest.

The reverse and underside remain comparatively roughly worked, with visible saw, chisel and drill marks typical of workshop production. An old joined or repaired area is visible to the underside where sections of the composition meet.

At approximately 26cm long and weighing 1.273kg, this is a substantial and highly decorative example of the type.

Origin: China

Period: Early 20th century

Date: Probably circa 1910–1930

Material: Carved soapstone

Type: Double brush washer / water coupe / scholar’s desk object

Decoration: Rockwork with lizards / geckos, bird and incised floral ornament

Length: Approx. 26cm

Weight: Approx. 1,273g

Condition: Good antique condition overall with extensive age-related wear, scratches, surface marks, chips and small losses to the carved rockwork and projecting details. The reverse and underside retain rough workshop finishing, and there is evidence of an old join or repair to the underside. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

A large and unusual Chinese soapstone scholar’s object with complex openwork carving, multiple animals and attractive natural stone colour variation.

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CKB LTD. was formed in 2010 and operates as an independent dealer, with a focus on carefully selected works offered through private sale and online platforms.

The company emphasizes informed attribution, clear descriptions, and responsible market practice. Objects are evaluated through visual examination, comparative research, and reference to established art-historical frameworks, with attention to condition, authenticity, and context.

CKB LTD. works with private collectors, dealers, and international buyers, and conducts transactions in accordance with standard international art market conventions. Each item is offered as a collectible work of art, with transparency regarding condition and attribution, and with respect for the nature of historical objects.

Condition, Attribution & Authenticity Notice

This work is offered as an antique object based on visual examination and comparative stylistic analysis. All statements regarding age, origin, attribution, and period represent informed scholarly opinion and are not guarantees of absolute fact.

Condition descriptions are based on external observation only. The interior, underside of the base, and any internal cavities or consecration materials have not been examined. No technical analysis (including XRF, thermoluminescence, or metallurgical testing) has been performed.

As is typical with antique bronzes, minor casting irregularities, surface wear, rubbing to high points, oxidation, and age-related imperfections are present and should be expected. No visible repairs or restorations are observed from the available views; however, the absence of hidden restorations cannot be guaranteed.

All items are sold as is, and prospective buyers are encouraged to examine the photographs carefully and request additional information prior to purchase. By bidding or purchasing, the buyer acknowledges acceptance of the item?s condition and the nature of antique works.

International Buyers ? Important Information

This item is an antique work of art over 100 years old and is sold as a collectible object. Buyers are responsible for any import duties, VAT, GST, customs fees, or local taxes imposed by their country.

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This work is offered in accordance with standard international art market practices.