Chinese Lotus-Form Vessel

Not a lotus this time, but a scalloped shell of stone.

Chinese carvers made this lotus-form vessel in marble, dated in the record to the 19th century or earlier. Lotus-like and shell-like forms have a long history in Chinese ornament and are commonly associated with purity and good fortune. This one is a wide, oval dish with a fluted, scalloped rim and a shallow interior. It stands on four small, squared feet. A line of blue-grey veining crosses the pale cream marble.

About 4 inches tall, 12 wide and 9 deep. Low and graceful, a fine place to rest the loose change of the day.