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AI Appraisal: Chinese Carved Soapstone Figure
🤖 AI-POWERED EXPERT APPRAISAL
Informed by 25+ years of real InstAppraisal history
🏛️ Archive-Informed AI
This appraisal is grounded in 5 similar items from InstAppraisal's 25+ year archive of real-world appraisals.
Confidence Level: 85%
Chinese Carved Soapstone Figure
Physical Description: This intricately carved soapstone figure depicts an elderly man, likely a sage or philosopher, holding a staff in one hand and a small object in the other. A deer is positioned at his feet, symbolizing peace and harmony. The figure measures approximately 6 inches tall and 3 inches wide, with a weight of around 1.5 pounds. The soapstone exhibits a creamy beige color with reddish-brown veining, enhancing the details of the carving.
Condition Assessment: The figure is in good condition, rated 3 out of 5. There are minor surface scratches and some discoloration consistent with age, particularly on the base. The intricate details of the carving remain well-preserved, with no significant chips or cracks noted.
Historical Context: Soapstone carving has a long history in Chinese art, often associated with themes of nature and spirituality. This piece likely dates back to the mid-20th century, a period when traditional craftsmanship was celebrated and sought after. The figure's design reflects the cultural significance of sages in Chinese folklore, often representing wisdom and guidance.
Collector Appeal: Collectors value soapstone figures for their craftsmanship, cultural significance, and aesthetic appeal. The rarity of well-carved pieces, especially those depicting traditional themes, adds to their desirability. This figure's intricate details and historical context make it an attractive addition to any collection of Asian art.
Interesting Facts: Soapstone is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of talc, which allows for detailed carving. The deer, often associated with longevity and prosperity in Chinese culture, enhances the figure's symbolic meaning. Additionally, the use of natural veining in the stone adds a unique character to each piece.
Comparable Sales:
Valuation Range: Based on the condition and comparable sales, the estimated value of this Chinese carved soapstone figure is between $250 and $350 USD.
Confidence Level: 0.85
Disclaimers: This is not a certified appraisal and must not be relied upon for insurance, legal, tax, or estate purposes.
💰 ESTIMATED VALUE
$250 - $350
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📖 How This Appraisal Was Created
This appraisal was generated using AI analysis informed by InstAppraisal's 25+ years of archived appraisals, market observations, and community expertise. Your item was compared against 5 similar items from our historical database. Unlike generic AI tools, our system is grounded in decades of real-world appraisal data collected on this platform.
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