1930s Chinese Hand Carved Soapstone "Three Wise Monkeys" Toothpick Holder "See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil"

Details

Description

Hand-carved Chinese soapstone toothpick holder from the 1930s, featuring the beloved “Three Wise Monkeys” motif: See No Evil, Hear No … Read more Hand-carved Chinese soapstone toothpick holder from the 1930s, featuring the beloved “Three Wise Monkeys” motif: See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil. Each monkey is rendered in relief around the vessel, carved directly from a single block of richly veined soapstone.

The stone displays warm, natural tones ranging from honey and rose to soft cream, with visible hand-tool marks that speak to its artisanal origins. Compact in scale yet sculpturally engaging, this piece was originally intended as a toothpick holder, but also works beautifully today as a desk accessory, match holder, vanity catchall, or cabinet collectible.

The Three Wise Monkeys motif—symbolizing wisdom, restraint, and moral conduct—has deep roots in East Asian visual culture and was especially popular in export decorative arts of the early 20th century.

Details:

Origin: China

Date: Circa 1930s

Material: Hand-carved soapstone

Motif: Three Wise Monkeys (“See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil”)

Function: Toothpick holder / small vessel

Dimensions: Approx. 2.5" diameter; approx. 1.75" tall (see photos)

Condition: Good vintage condition with age-appropriate wear, surface variation, and natural stone inclusions

Perfect for:

Desk or bar accessories

Asian art & object collections

Conversation-starting curios

Thoughtful vintage gifts

Display in a study, library, or cabinet of curiosities

A charming and symbolic object—both functional and collectible—with timeless cultural appeal. See less