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Bitong, Brush Pot

1999.13.0013

Thumbnail of Bitong, Brush Pot (1999.13.0013)

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Basic Information

Artifact Identification Bitong, Brush Pot   (1999.13.0013)
Classification/
Nomenclature
  1. Communication T&E
    2. :
  2. Written Communication T&E
    3. :
  3. Writing Accessories
Artist/Maker None
Geographic Location
Period/Date Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), 18th century
Culture Chinese
Location On Exhibitin the East Asia exhibit

Physical Analysis

Dimension 1 (Width) 15.2 cm
Dimension 2 (Height) 15.0 cm
Dimension 3 (Depth) 13.0 cm
Weight 937 g
Measuring Remarks None
Materials Plant--Rose, Plant--Wood
Manufacturing Processes Carved
Munsell Color Information Strong Brown (5YR 3/6) -Lighter portion. Dark Grayish Brown (7.5YR 2/2) -Rim. Black (5YR /) -Base(bottom).

Research Remarks

Published Description N/A
Description

"A Chinese huanghuali (huang hua-li) brushpot (bitong) for the scholar's desk, 18th century, Qing (Ch'ing) Dynasty, 6"H x 6" dia.

Huanghuali became increasingly popular from the middle of the Ming Dynasty onwards. Some of the finest pieces for the scholar's desk, as well as fine furniture, were produced from huanghuali.

From the Song Dynasty onwards inkstone, ink, brush and paper have been known as wen-fang ssupao or Four Treasures of a Scholar's Study. The "four treasures" was a highly developed art and highly prized. In addition to the "four treasures" seals, brush pots (bitong), wrist rests, scroll pots, desk screens, and other scholar's objects have been appreciated for their function as well as beauty. The objects could also be merely decorative with aesthetic qualities." - Bernie McManus, Appraiser, Woodbury House, Connecticut, 10/23/1999

Yellow Rose Wood.
Comparanda N/A
Bibliography

Cameron, Nigel. The Chinese Scholar's Desk. Hong Kong: FormAsia Books, 2003.

Artifact History

Archaeological Data N/A
Credit Line/Dedication Fred A. Freund Collection
Reproduction No
Reproduction Information N/A

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