{"product_id":"tampon-sceau-chinois-ancien-pierre-de-savon-dragon-calligraphie-vintage","title":"Vintage Chinese soapstone seal stamp dragon calligraphy","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAFW - Antique France Worldwide\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDescription\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis antique stamp or seal, of Chinese inspiration, is carved from soapstone, as indicated by the keywords. The object has a rounded cubic shape topped with a detailed sculpture depicting a stylized dragon, recognizable by its clawed paws, expressive head, and sinuous coiled body. The stone, with natural hues ranging from beige to amber brown, reveals subtle color variations and a slightly satiny texture typical of this mineral material. The visible surface of the stamp shows a decoration in slight relief, with finely carved motifs that highlight the craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe upper part of the seal particularly draws attention with the complexity of the sculpture: the dragon, a strong symbol of Asian culture, is represented in a dynamic posture, with its mouth open and its tail coiled around its body. Details such as the scales, claws, and body movements are carefully crafted, testifying to a fine mastery of soapstone carving.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe base of the stamp has a regular silhouette, with no visible inscription on this side. The polishing highlights the softness of the stone and its natural shades. No chips or major defects are observable on the presented side, apart from some minor marks related to use and time, giving the whole an authentic charm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe object is accompanied by a box covered with a pale green fabric with traditional Chinese motifs, reinforcing the decorative aspect and the patrimonial dimension of this stamp. This type of seal was traditionally used to affix a personal or official mark on calligraphed documents, artworks, or correspondence, and is still prized today for decoration or the practice of calligraphy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis calligraphy stamp, also called a seal, is an emblematic object of Asian graphic arts, which can be referred to as \"seal\", \"stamp\", or \"chop\" in international searches. Its style, material, and iconography link it to traditional Chinese productions, often sought after for their refined aesthetics and strong symbolism.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSecond-hand item sold as is. Some superficial signs of wear are visible, without altering the overall quality or the legibility of the carved decoration. The presentation box is also visible and in apparent good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDid you know?\u003c\/b\u003e \nSoapstone seals, known as \"shoushan\" in China, have been used since the Ming Dynasty to sign artworks, official documents, or private correspondence. The dragon, often depicted on these stamps, symbolizes power, protection, and success in Chinese culture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAFW Reassurance\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFast shipping and careful packaging by a professional seller specializing in decorative and antique objects. Your purchase is handled with the utmost care.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eKeywords: Chinese seal, calligraphy stamp, soapstone, dragon sculpture, seal stone, chop, Asian ink stamp, box calligraphy stamp, antique stamp, Asian art, Chinese stamp, decorative stone, green fabric box\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AFW","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54278660882759,"sku":"a8dae512-923f-41d7-ba8b-b4f880ea69bb","price":13.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0989\/5152\/8775\/files\/s-l1600_5173499d-ea05-4bd0-bd23-f98252d63d93.jpg?v=1783048918","url":"https:\/\/shop.antiquefranceworldwide.com\/en\/products\/tampon-sceau-chinois-ancien-pierre-de-savon-dragon-calligraphie-vintage","provider":"AFW","version":"1.0","type":"link"}