Carved Fluorite and Nephrite Jade Peony Sculpture

This is an intricately hand-carved stone sculpture depicting a blooming peony flower, synonymous with traditional Chinese decorative arts. The central bloom is composed of numerous overlapping petals carved from translucent blue-green fluorite, displaying a characteristic vitreous luster and natural internal zoning. The petals feature softly scalloped edges and a polished finish. At the center of the blossom are delicate yellow metal stamens, likely made of wire, which add a realistic anatomical highlight. The flower is supported by a structure of several carved leaves fashioned from a darker, mottled green hardstone, likely nephrite jade or serpentine. These leaves exhibit realistic veining and vary in hue from forest green to pale moss. The construction involves individual stone components wired together, a hallmark of mid-20th-century Asian lapidary work. The piece is approximately 6 to 8 inches in diameter. Notable condition points include a light layer of surface dust in the crevices and what appear to be minor natural fractures or 'cleavages' intrinsic to the fluorite material rather than structural damage. The craftsmanship is of high quality, demonstrating significant skill in stone thinness and petal arrangement to capture a sense of organic movement. This vintage item likely dates from the 1950s to the 1970s and belongs to the tradition of 'Gemstone Trees' and floral carvings popular in export markets.