Chinese Monastery Stamp or Seal Depicting a Lohan, Based

A narrow upright tablet with one seated, bearded figure, carved in the faintest red.

This monastery stamp or seal depicting a lohan is from China, and dates to the early 20th century. It is soapstone. The soft, fine texture of soapstone lets a carver cut sharp detail, and a finished surface can be polished smooth to a gentle sheen. A tall, slim rectangular plaque showing a seated figure with a long beard and draped robe, incised in fine lines tinted red-brown. The warm cream surface is mottled. A small black stand and square base hold it upright. It is 2 inches wide, 2 deep and 4.5 high.

A contemplative portrait, delivered at pocket scale.