Chinese Lotus Form Vessel

A lotus bloom turned into a bowl, petal by petal.

This lotus form vessel was carved in marble in China in the 19th century. The lotus is widely associated in Chinese art with purity, and lotus shapes commonly appear on bowls and basins. Rounded petals with incised edges wrap the body, which rises from a hexagonal foot with scalloped cutouts. The stone is cream and pale yellow, finely speckled and slightly chalky, with a soft, aged finish. The rim flares gently outward.

About 13 inches across. Looks well filled with water, or left empty.