Pair of Rui Shi Seals
Possibly late Qing Dynasty, late 19th - early 20th century
Carved soapstone, 12 x 4-3/4 x 4-3/4 inches

Each of square section and columnar form, the bases with red-inked carved seals denoting "Riches and honor for 10,000 years" and "May your good fortune be according to your wish," the sides incised with inscriptions beneath a frieze of stylized waves, surmounted by large guardian lions (fu dogs or rui shi) each with loose balls (representing pearls) within jaws and four clambering cubs. A few insignificant chips on edges, else fine.

These carved and engraved fu ("happiness") seals, massive for their size, would have stood guard at a doorway in an elite home.

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Price: $1,800
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