possibly late Qing dynasty, well carved in the shape of a lotus leaf with curled edges, 1-1/2 x 17 x 12 in.

Note: By nature, this wood is extremely dense and durable, and is considered a premium solid wood. Lychee wood comes with a natural brownish red wood and displays an interesting zig zag grain which has been referred to as the tiger skin design. This particular example has a wonderful rich leather patina - the carving smooth and minimally figured. Because lotuses rise from the mud, they are often seen as a symbol of purity. Since they return to the murky water each evening and open their blooms at the break of day, lotus flowers are also symbols of strength, resilience, and rebirth.

surface dirt and accretion, scattered surface scratches and bumps