Hi there, 
I'm selling this stunning vintage Chinese hand-carved Buddha "Grotto Niche" boulder stone.
It's a truly magnificent, hefty Chinese hardstone boulder carving. 
Expertly crafted in the traditional "grotto" or "niche" style, a master artisan has hollowed out a deep window through the rich, oxidized russet-brown "skin" of the stone to reveal a serene, beautifully detailed figure of Shakyamuni Buddha inside. 
Please note, this is NOT a wearable pendant! 
It is a substantial, tactile scholar's rock or desk boulder. 
It measures approximately 14 cm in length, 7.5 cm wide and weighs a hefty 760 grams (nearly 1.7 lbs).  
This piece is crafted from a very richly patterned, high-quality variety of Serpentine/Bowenite hardstone (historically celebrated in China as Xiuyan Jade or "New Jade").  
It stays cold to the touch and displays a gorgeous, soft, milky translucency when a light source is held beneath the Buddha figure. 
For serious collectors, this stone has been water-displacement tested and holds a specific gravity/density of 2.79, perfectly consistent with authentic, premium-grade serpentine hardstone.  
The fluid, hand-carved details of the Buddha contrast beautifully against the natural, uncarved rustic rind of the river-style pebble. 
It retains a beautiful, waxy, tactile luster. 
The stone comes complete with its traditional braided nylon cord, gold thread and accent bead assembly, allowing it to be safely handled, displayed, or anchored. 
It's in excellent vintage condition with no chips, cracks, or damage to the carving. 
The carved white surfaces are remarkably clean, crisp, and pristine
Please see the photos and feel free to ask any questions.

This rare piece pays direct homage to the historic Silk Road cave shrines of ancient China, such as the famous Longmen and Mogao Grottoes. 
For centuries, artisans have shrunk this grand cliffside concept down into portable "pocket shrines" and desk boulders. Inside the protective window sits Shakyamuni Buddha. 
His right hand is raised in the Abhaya Mudra—the sacred gesture of fearlessness, peace, and protection. 
His left hand rests in the Dhyana Mudra of deep meditation.
In a traditional home or scholar's studio, a stone of this stature serves three purposes: 
Mindfulness Focus: Placed on a desk or shelf at eye level, looking into the deep niche serves as a visual reminder to pause, breathe, and find quiet.
Tactile Blessing Stone: The outer brown stone is smooth and meant to be held or rubbed during reflection. The natural oil from your hands will enhance the stone's deep luster over time.
Spiritual Protection: It acts as a powerful anchor for a room, bringing grounded, calming energy into your living space. 
The skilled carver intentionally left a natural patch of the russet skin resting on the Buddha's knee.
In Buddhist art, this represents harmony and non-duality—showing that spiritual purity and the unpolished, earthly world are deeply connected.

This amazing carved Buddha stone carving sits beautifully in the hand and will live happily in your home.
I will pack it very carefully for travel.

Thanks for looking, and i'm always open to reasonable offers.

Do please checkout my other items and feedback.
I'm very happy to combine postage where possible