Brush pot (Bitong)
early 18th century
The brush pot’s utilitarian purpose does not preclude it from being very finely made. Antiques and fine ceramics surround a gentleman seated on a kang couch, with books stacked to his left and an ancient bronze jue—a tripod wine cup—at right. His friends sit on “official’s hat” chairs, like the ones in this gallery. Skillfully rendered details show identifiable types like the bronze ding food vessel on the display table, and a Longquan celadon “hundred rib” jar with lotus cover, on the opposite side. Gu Jue, known for his meticulous and complex compositions, served at the Emperor Kangxi’s court.
Bamboo, with teak base and lip
4 3/4 x 2 1/2 in. (12.1 x 6.4cm)
Eugene Fuller Memorial Collection
56.109
