Antique Vietnamese Vase Intended To Hold An Ink Stick And Three Seal Paste Boxes

Ivory cylindrical “vase” height 11 cm.
Inscription on the base ( see red arrow) - The characters on the base are still directional (上, 下, 左, 右, 中) — these can mean top, bottom, left, right, center — indicating how to orient the holder or describing its contents’ arrangement. This was common on containers that held precision items like a Luopan compass or a scholar’s ink stick.
✅ Center:
• 中 (Zhōng) — “Center”
✅ Around the outer circle:
• 上 (Shàng) — “Up”
• 右 (Yòu) — “Right”
• 下 (Xià) — “Down”
• 左 (Zuǒ) — “Left”
• 一 (Yī) — “One”
• 二 (Èr) — “Two”
• 三 (Sān) — “Three”
• 四 (Sì) — “Four”
These show how the directions and numbers are laid out. They likely guided the correct orientation for the cylinder when stored or in use.
Also three ivory boxes to contain paste for seals (chops). Genuine dark age patina. Diameter 6 cm 4.5cm. 3.4cm.

These come from the same collection as the seven seals I have for sale - CLICK HERE


SOLD WITH A CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY

It is possible to pay in installments.

On parle français. Wij spreken Nederlands

If you have any questions do not hesitate to call me 0678679716 or email tdixonfrance@yahoo.co.uk

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I am an Englishman living down in the beautiful rural South of France and spend my days searching the little brocantes, flea markets, and shops for treasures. Any questions will be answered promptly. MONEY BACK WITHOUT QUESTION IF I MISREPRESENT SOMETHING IN ANY WAY.

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