Posted 8 years ago
cshapiro
(177 items)
A masterful carving on this agate bottle! I had to look at it for a while to realize that they carved the larger turtle in such a way as to imply the tail and back two legs are under water - they used the natural coloring of the stone to imply that and then carved the shell, the front two legs and the head in relief.
In Chinese culture, the tortoise's slow movement symbolizes steadfastness and immutability. The shell conceals the secrets of the universe and is an implement of fortune tellers, for the tortoise is reputedly able to foretell one's future.
It is very well hollowed. If not for the weight of the carving it could almost be a floater bottle.
It measures 4.5cm tall.
So skilful. Wonderful bottle and I love turtles!
Me too!!!
Wow! The under water effect is so clever!
A true beauty :-)
Yes kyratango - the artistry and skill that went into these bottles never ceases to amaze me