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Chinese Ho Ho Boy Water Dropper, c. 1900

About the Item

This curious object is a late 19th-century Chinese water dropper, a calligraphy accessory that would have been found upon a scholar's painting table alongside the Four Treasures of the Study - the calligraphy brush, ink, paper, and inkstone. To prepare ink for painting or writing, the scholar would have used the dropper to carefully drip water onto an inkstone before grinding a solid ink stick. This charming example is sculpted of porcelain to the shape of a young boy's face, a common motif for prosperity and abundance. The dropper is finished with a clear glaze marked with subtle crazing and firing imperfections.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 2 in (5.08 cm)Width: 4.25 in (10.8 cm)Depth: 2.5 in (6.35 cm)
  • Style:
    Qing (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Porcelain,Glazed
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    c. 1900
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Chicago, IL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: ZHA0521stDibs: LU820043540962

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