Late Qing Dynasty to Republic Period Carved Soapstone Sculpture, Triple-Vessel Desk Ornament with Monkeys and Birds

A carved soapstone desk ornament dating from the late Qing dynasty to the Republic period. This single oriental sculpture is intricately hand-carved in high relief and openwork, featuring a central tall ovoid vessel flanked by two smaller vessels. Each vessel is decorated with fine incised foliate and floral scrollwork. The composition is animated by figures of monkeys, including a central figure holding peaches, a traditional symbol of longevity, alongside stylised birds perched within a porous, lingbi-style rockery base. The stone is of a characteristic reddish-brown colour with a waxy lustre and natural dark mineral inclusions. Dimensions: Approximately 225mm x 170mm.