Chinese Censer Form Vessel with Cloud Motif

Clouds, hundreds of them, carved into a pale stone box.

This censer-form vessel was carved in marble in China and is dated in the record to the 19th century or earlier. Vessels of this shape are commonly associated with incense burning or the display of plants. The rectangular body is covered all over in swirling, curled clouds, carved in rounded relief. A smooth, plain base with notched feet lifts it slightly. The stone is soft cream and ivory, with warm age tones in the deeper hollows and a lightly worn finish.

About 16 inches wide and 7 tall. A planter or a centerpiece, with weather built in.