A Chinese Huanghuali Scholar's Brush Pot Bitong with Inscription and Carving

Lot Details & Additional Photographs

Appears to be huanghuali wood, with incised zhushu seal script colored green to one side with date 1804 and Deng Shiru (鄧石如) artist name and Deng (鄧) seal, the other side with an elaborate carving of two dragons sinuously flying through spiraling clouds above crashing waves below, with hole opening to bottom.

9 1/2 in., 9 in. diameter

Deng Shiru was one of the most influential calligraphers and seal carvers of the Qing dynasty, famous for revolutionizing seal script. His work broke from rigid, archaic traditions, blending fluid brushwork with classical forms. This brush pot exhibits the expert technique and style of Deng's work and may be by the artist's hand or a later Qing or Republic inspired piece.

Good estate condition with some wear and scattered scratches; a few small nicks to rim.