Early 20th Century Pair of Chinese Hand Carved Soapstone Water Buffalo Bookends

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Description

A finely carved pair of Chinese soapstone sculptures depicting water buffalo with calves, raised on square architectural pedestal bases. These … Read more A finely carved pair of Chinese soapstone sculptures depicting water buffalo with calves, raised on square architectural pedestal bases. These pieces date to the early 20th century(1930’s) and were produced by traditional stone carving workshops.

Each sculpture portrays a mother buffalo accompanied by a calf, a subject rich in symbolism throughout East Asian art. The water buffalo traditionally represents strength, agricultural life, perseverance, and prosperity, while the calf symbolizes family, protection, and continuity.

The animals stand atop square carved pedestal bases supported by columnar corners, with decorative panels featuring relief carvings of additional animals and natural motifs beneath the buffalo. These carvings are executed in high relief within recessed panels, demonstrating careful hand workmanship and providing visual depth to the composition.

The underside of the bases display incised seal-style decorative motifs resembling traditional workshop marks, a common feature on mid-century soapstone export carvings.

Dimensions:

Height: 8 in
Width: 3 in
Depth: 3 in See less