Brush Washer, 16th-17th century, 2 x 10 1/2 in. (5.08 x 26.67 cm), Pale green nephrite with brown markings, China, 16th-17th century, Vessels distinguished by soft, natural forms and high relief carvings are characteristic of the Ming period (1368-1644). Waterpots, brush holders, and other necessary utensils of the scholar's table often took the form of a lotus, citrus fruit, or as here, ling-chih, an auspicious fungus meant to prolong life. Plants and animals symbolic of good fortune, long used as decorative themes in Chinese art, were immensely popular during the Ming dynasty. This vessel has two water receptacles; since gradated tones of ink are used in Chinese painting and calligraphy, a variety of containers are necessary to wash brushes and dilute ink explaining the double bowl in this washer.
Keywords:
Brush Washer, 16th-17th century, Pale green nephrite, brown markings, China, 16th-17th century, Vessels distinguished, soft, natural forms, high relief carvings, characteristic, Ming period, 1368-1644, Waterpots, brush holders, necessary utensils, scholar's table, form, lotus, citrus fruit, ling-chih, auspicious fungus meant, prolong life, Plants, animals symbolic, good fortune, long, decorative themes, Chinese art, immensely popular, Ming dynasty, vessel, two water receptacles, gradated tones, ink, Chinese painting, calligraphy, variety, containers, necessary, wash brushes, dilute ink explaining, double bowl, washer
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