Chinese Censer Form Vessel with Cloud Motif

Clouds roll across all four sides, carved in stone.

This censer-form vessel was carved in marble in China, and the record dates it to the 19th century or earlier. Censer shapes in stone were commonly used for incense or as ornamental containers in garden and scholar settings. The square body sits on four short block feet. Deeply cut cloud scrolls cover each side, with swirling tails. The marble is white to pale gray with a chalky, weathered surface and a few darker spots.

About 12 inches square. Heavy, handsome and weather-proof by temperament.