Vintage Hand-Carved Serpentine Incense Burner Foo Dog & Turtle Design Repair Detail

Vintage Hand-Carved Serpentine Incense Burner Foo Dog & Turtle Design   Repair Detail

This vintage hand-carved incense burner, made from serpentine stone, showcases exquisite Chinese craftsmanship. Featuring a Foo Dog (Guardian Lion) and a turtle-inspired body, this censer embodies protection, strength, and longevity, key symbols in Chinese tradition.

Crafted from black and dark green serpentine stone with soft grey speckles, this unique piece has a smooth texture and intricate carvings. Measuring approximately 12cm (L) x 7.5cm (W) x 9cm (H), it makes for an eye-catching display or functional incense burner.

Historical & Craftsmanship Insights:

• Material & Patina: Serpentine has been used in Chinese carvings for centuries, but the dark green-black variety with speckles suggests a 20th-century piece rather than an older Qing Dynasty artifact.
• Carving Style: The Foo Dog and turtle-inspired design were common in mid-20th-century Chinese decorative arts, particularly for export pieces. The level of detail suggests hand-carving with some machine assistance, which became more common in the 1940s1970s.
• Export Market Influence: Many serpentine and soapstone carvings were produced for export from China between the 1950s1980s, particularly in Hong Kong and mainland China, catering to Western buyers interested in Oriental décor.

Estimated Date:

Based on these factors, this piece most likely dates between the 1950s - 1970s.

Features:
Material: Serpentine stone
Intricate hand-carved detailing
Symbolism: Foo Dog for protection, turtle for longevity
Condition: Some natural wear, with a visible repair that does not detract from its beauty (see listing photo 8)

A rare and collectible piece, this incense burner is perfect for collectors of Asian art, spiritual artifacts, or vintage décor. Sold as-is, ready for display or use!