QING DINASTY 1900 Little Amphora Vase With Lid Carved In Blue Lace Agathe

A carved amphora in agate from the Qing Dynasty.

This is an antique amphora vase with a lid created during the late Qing dynasty period, back in the 1900-1912. The beautiful vase was masterfully carved in natural translucent blue lace agate with two loose round rings as handles. The vase was carved with plain surfaces and is fitted on top with a lid. It is presented in a base for display carved from rose-wood. The purpose of small carved amphoras in China varied, but they were primarily for decorative display or held valuable contents like incense, precious oils, or small portions of species. Unlike their large, ancient counterparts used for transport and storage, these smaller, carved versions were luxury items, often part of a scholar's studio collection, or symbolic objects in miniature curio cabinets. Their carvings could depict auspicious symbols or archaic designs, making them both an artistic and symbolic art form. 

Blue Lace Agate 

This is a variety of banded chalcedony known for its soft blue and white, lace-like patterns. It is considered a calming and soothing stone with metaphysical properties linked to communication and confidence, often called the "Stone of the Diplomat". While originally found in a mine in Namibia, South Africa, which is now closed, similar agates are found elsewhere, though they may not compare to the original Ysterputs material. 

Country: Late Imperial China.

Period: Qing Dynasty, 1900-1912.

Weight: 68.55 Grams, (43.95 Dwt).

Measurements: All parts included is 95 mm by 30 mm by 57 mm (3.75 x 1.16 x 2.25 Inches).

The Qing Dynasty

Officially the Great Qing, was the Manchu-led last dynasty in the imperial history of China. It was proclaimed in 1636 in Manchuria (modern-day Northeast China), in 1644 entered Beijing, extended its rule to cover all of China proper, and then extended the empire into Central Asia. The dynasty lasted until 1912. In orthodox Chinese historiography, the Qing dynasty was preceded by the Ming dynasty and succeeded by the Republic of China. The multiethnic Qing empire lasted for almost three centuries and assembled the territorial base for modern China. It was the largest Chinese dynasty and in 1790 the fourth largest empire in world history in terms of territorial size. With a population of 432 million in 1912, it was the world's most populous country at the time.

Collateral: This Qing Dynasty carved amphora vase is accompanied by the presentation base in carved wood.

Condition: The overall condition of this Qing Dynasty carved amphora vase is excellent. Besides the little normal wear, there is no damage and all parts are secured in the settings. This little vase was carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.

INVENTORY REF: D112225ENMB/.7877