Chinese carved soapstone seal with guardian lion finial, c. 1920–1950 A Chinese carved soapstone seal of rectangular form, surmounted by a sculpted guardian lion. Carved from naturally variegated grey-green soapstone with distinctive pink and reddish veining, the stone displays attractive variations in colour across each side. The guardian lion is traditionally modelled with a broad head, stylised mane and curled tail. The underside is carved with a seal-script matrix and retains traces of red seal paste, indicating that the seal was used rather than being made purely as a decorative object. In good vintage condition, with minor surface wear consistent with age and use.