Water Dropper in the Form of the Poet Li Bai
Date17th century
PeriodMing dynasty (1368–1644)
MediumDehua ware; porcelain with transparent glaze
DimensionsOverall: 2 1/8 x 3 1/4 in. (5.4 x 8.3 cm)
ClassificationsCeramics
Credit LineGift of Ira and Nancy Koger, 2001
Object numberSN11122.74
In Chinese calligraphy practice, water is used to prepare ink and clean brushes. Water droppers and brush washers were thus essential tools for scholars, and they appear in a wide range of sculptural forms. Floral and animal designs are especially common, while others mimic the shapes of antique bronzes. Another example takes the form of renowned Tang-dynasty (618-907) poet Li Bai (701-762) lounging on his wine jar, a reference to his love of drink. Remembered as one of the greatest poets in Chinese history, Li Bai enjoyed particular popularity in Ming-dynasty literary culture and entertainment.
On View
On viewLocation
- Center for Asian Art, 3rd floor, Lobby, Case C
Collections
17th century
17th century
early 18th Century
17th century
late 18th-19th century
17th century