Artisan Coaster Appraisal

Inlaid Stone Decorative Lid or Coaster

This item is a circular, flat object, likely a lid or a coaster, crafted from a dark, mottled stone, possibly marble or soapstone, exhibiting natural variations of deep brown, grey, and ochre hues. The surface is adorned with an intricate floral inlay design, featuring what appears to be two distinct flowers with accompanying foliage. One prominent flower, toward the left, has multiple petals made from an opaque, off-white or cream-colored material, possibly mother-of-pearl or another shell, highlighted with a central black or very dark inlay, and an orange or reddish accent at the base of its stem. The stem and leaves for this flower are rendered in a light grey or silvery material. To the right, a second floral element depicts a less open bloom, possibly a bud, with petals of a slightly translucent, off-white or pale orange material, and additional leaves and stem in the same light grey material. The inlay work appears to be flush with the stone surface, indicating a skilled craftsmanship. The overall diameter of the piece can be estimated as approximately 4-5 inches given its scale in the human hand. The stone itself shows a polished finish, though some minor surface wear or light scratching may be present, consistent with age and handling. There are no discernible maker's marks or signatures visible from the image. The style suggests a decorative piece from the mid-20th century or later, common in global artisan markets, particularly from regions with rich traditions in stone carving and inlay, such as India or Italy. The quality of the inlay seems good, with precise cuts and a tight fit, indicating attention to detail.