Qilin under a Full Moon Inkstone

Scholarly pursuits such as painting, calligraphy, and poetry were a highly respected and revered subculture in ancient China, and demanded their own set of tools that were not only functional, but also beautiful. One of the "Four Treasures of the Study," inkstones such as this were used to mix dry ink with water for use in calligraphy painting. This 19th century inkstone is guarded by a mythical fu dog, or shizi, depicted with open jaws and a long mane of flowing curls. Resembling a Buddhist fly whisk...

Along with paper, ink, and inkstone, the brush is one of the Four Treasures of the scholar’s studio. Arguably the most important tool, the brush served as a direct link to the artist...

Made of bamboo and delicately lacquered in gold and black these early 20th century Thai scroll cases were an essential accessory for any esteemed scholar. The perfect size for a roll...

A mixture of finely powdered tobacco, herbs, and spices, snuff was introduced to China in the 17th century by Western diplomats. Initially reserved for ranking members of Qing-dynast...

Sotheby's; Scholarly Works of Art from the Mary and George Bloch Collection, Hong Kong, October 2005. First edition Hardcover, 202 pp., 149 lots,...

A pair of beautiful solid brass bookends with finely carved porcelain florals. Large porcelain insets in oval form, finely carved in relief with flowers representing four seasons, sp...

A rare, beautiful pair of antique Chinese bookends. Showcasing the beauty of translucent white jade with clarity almost to transparency, hand-carved dep...

From a private collection, a spectacular pair of solid brass enameled bookends. Each features a gilded dragon emerging from ocean waves that meet the clouds, all five talons extended...