Chinese Stone Planter

Rough-hewn on a footing of mismatched stone. This one wears its age plainly.

Stone carvers of Hebei Province, China, made this planter in sandstone, dated in the record to the 18th century or earlier. Heavy stone basins of this type commonly stood in gardens and courtyards as planters or water vessels. The shape is chunkier and less regular than its siblings, with plain sides marked by faint tool lines. The foot appears built from separate blocks in contrasting reddish and gray tones. The surface is weathered and sandy.

About 20 inches across and 14 high. Solid, lived-in, and not trying to impress anyone.