East Asia, China, Ming Dynasty, ca. 1368 to 1644 CE. This is a large granite stone slab depicting a pair of robed figures in a courtyard carved in low relief upon a rectangular face. The slab was perhaps once part of a temple or other important building and depicts the bearded men dressed in scholarly and official clothing standing in an outdoor setting- a tiled and walled patio or path surrounded by a leafy tree, flowering plants, and stylized clouds. One holds a scroll with Chinese characters, and the other is wearing a futou type of official's hat and holds a scepter or lotus flower in his hand. The carvings are clear and sharp, with light mineral deposits in recessed areas. Size: 26" L x 2.5" W x 13" H (66 cm x 6.4 cm x 33 cm); 15" H (38.1 cm) on included custom stand.

These figures perhaps represent legendary Immortals or Taoist scholars and poets such as the author and legendary philosopher Lao Tzu (Laozi) and Confucius. Lao Tzu was the founder of Chinese Taoism and a contemporary of Confucius. There are several stories about the meeting and philosophical exchanges between these two great masters, which may be depicted on this stone.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, 1995 to 2010; ex-M. Kobiashi collection, Hawaii USA, 1960 to 2000

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#170082

Intact and very good on front face. Chips and losses to verso face and does not affect overall presentation. Chips and surface abrasions, but figures and motifs are sharp and well defined. Some mineral deposits on surface.