Guangxu (1875-1908)

Chinese agate brush washer, leaf & flower form, with carved hardwood stand
Period: Late Qing / Republic of China, circa late 19th – early 20th century.
Material: Natural agate (chalcedony), cleverly utilizing natural caramel coloured skin to carve foliage and tendrils.

Description:
A Chinese carved agate brush washer modelled as a cluster of leaves and twisting vines. The craftsman took advantage of the natural warm amber / caramel banding within the agate stone to form the leaves, with openwork carving around the rim. The interior is hollowed out for holding water, typical of Chinese scholar’s desk stationery. It comes with its original fitted carved hardwood display stand.

Condition Report (key points):
The agate body itself has no major cracks.
One vine sprig on the agate washer is broken and missing.
The matching hardwood stand has losses to its openwork pierced carving. There are old chips and wear to the wood.
General age-related wear consistent with its period, polish remains smooth.