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Miniature Scholar's Bronze Ewer, China, 17th Century
Miniature scholar's water pitcher in bronze with a dark patina – China, late Ming / early Qing period (16th–17th century)
Miniature scholar’s water pitcher or ewer in bronze, dating from the late Ming Dynasty or the very early Qing Dynasty (16th–17th century). The object features a low, bulbous, globular form, topped by a long, slender cylindrical neck. It is fitted with a delicate removable lid mounted on its original hinge. The handle takes the sculptural form of an archaic, hornless dragon (chilong) with sinewy and dynamic lines, clinging to the neck of the vessel, while the spout rises in a fine, harmonious curve. This highly symbolic tableware piece was traditionally used by Chinese calligraphers to pour water with extreme precision onto the inkstone.
Miniature scholar’s water pitcher or ewer in bronze, dating from the late Ming Dynasty or the very early Qing Dynasty (16th–17th century). The object features a low, bulbous, globular form, topped by a long, slender cylindrical neck. It is fitted with a delicate removable lid mounted on its original hinge. The handle takes the sculptural form of an archaic, hornless dragon (chilong) with sinewy and dynamic lines, clinging to the neck of the vessel, while the spout rises in a fine, harmonious curve. This highly symbolic tableware piece was traditionally used by Chinese calligraphers to pour water with extreme precision onto the inkstone.
- Material: Very high-quality heavy bronze, a copper-rich alloy.
- Dimensions: Height: 8.3 cm
- Weight: 187 grams (remarkable density for its size, characteristic of castings from the Ming Dynasty).
- Condition: Excellent overall condition and authenticity. Very beautiful natural, circular wear under the base, revealing the bronze’s golden sheen. Functional hinge but not secured; no visible restoration.
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