{"product_id":"statue-ancienne-chinois-pierre-de-lard-vieillard-sage-sculpture-asie-deco-vintag","title":"Vintage Asian decoration, antique Chinese lard stone sculpture of an old wise man","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAFW - Antique France Worldwide\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis antique statue depicts a wise old man, sculpted from what is described as soapstone, a traditional material in China for this type of decorative object. The figure features a long beard, a wide smile, and a rounded headdress, holding a staff with an openwork upper end in one hand and a round object, reminiscent of a peach or a symbol of immortality, in the other. The sculpture is characterized by an upright and solemn posture, with carefully draped clothing and particular attention paid to the folds and facial details.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe surface displays shades of brown, beige, and maroon, with a matte to slightly satin patina depending on the area. The base, integrated into the piece, takes on a highly worked rocky shape, evoking a natural pedestal, typical of ancient Asian sculptures. The staff, openwork and pierced with multiple holes, reinforces the artisanal character of the ensemble. No markings or inscriptions are visible on the front face.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe overall rendering is harmonious and demonstrates meticulous craftsmanship, with an alternation of smooth areas and more textured parts, particularly on the base and the staff. The piece displays beautiful expressiveness, especially in the face and the character's gestures, highlighting the spiritual and philosophical inspiration of traditional Chinese art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe natural colors of the soapstone, ranging from light beige to dark brown, offer a warm and authentic appearance. The object is perfectly suited for interior decoration, especially in a display case, on a shelf, or as a central element in an Asian-inspired space.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe back and sides not visible in the photo cannot be described. The photo only shows the front face and partially the left profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e: Used item, sold as is. The surface shows some visible signs of wear, particularly on the edges of the base and the staff. No major chips or apparent structural defects on the visible face. Authentic age-related patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDid you know?\u003c\/b\u003e Soapstone, also called \"shoushan\" in China, is prized for its soft texture, allowing for very fine detail work. Used since the Ming Dynasty, it is used to create seals, statuettes, and small decorative sculptures, often associated with symbols of longevity and wisdom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAFW Reassurance\u003c\/b\u003e: Fast shipping, careful packaging, and tracking provided by a professional seller specializing in antique art and craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eKeywords: Asian statuette, Chinese sculpture, soapstone, Chinese sage, vintage decoration, Asian figure, oriental art, antique statue, old Chinese statue, Asian carving, decorative stone, Chinese art object\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AFW","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54242649506119,"sku":"50308-0fdb23cb-1064-47b0-9504-28378ba9e90d-PA11.89","price":52.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0989\/5152\/8775\/files\/1_b4f26eb1-6298-480c-a157-c33afcab7a11.jpg?v=1782591232","url":"https:\/\/shop.antiquefranceworldwide.com\/en\/products\/statue-ancienne-chinois-pierre-de-lard-vieillard-sage-sculpture-asie-deco-vintag","provider":"AFW","version":"1.0","type":"link"}