These are antique Chinese ink chops which my father brought back from China circa 1980. They are made from different types of stone.
The largest is a nested set with a total of 4 chops. The meanings of the symbols are: Largest- "Long Life"; Second Largest- "Double Happiness" (often used when people get married); Second Smallest- a flying pigeon (symbolizes peace); Smallest... I can't tell what it is! You will see from the photos that the second to smallest has a chip in the upward corner.
The second piece is an old man carrying something (anyone know what?) on his shoulder. The chop means "12 happy children".
The last is a lion and the chop means "Empire" or "Emperor".
I was told this information by my father and I am not able to read them myself.
Description
Category
General Antiques and Collectibles
Medium
Stone
Condition
Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item
See photos with ruler
Date Period
1950 or earlier
History
My father traveled to China with a medical mission in 1972 and again in 1981. He brought back several items which at the time, were purported to be antiques. I don't know if this is true. I inherited them. I'm not sure during which trip the chops were acquired.
Price Paid (If known)
Purchased 50 years ago in China
For Sale?
Yes
Photos
