Blue and White Peony Brush Pot

$388

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Dimensions

H: 7.75" Dia: 8.0"

Materials

Porcelain

Purchase Quantity

Collection #

TLC029G

Estimated Shipping

$20

Set alongside the four treasures of the study - the calligraphy brush, ink, paper, and inkstone - a brush pot, or bitong, was an essential fixture of the scholars' desk. This porcelain brush pot beautifully exemplifies this traditional form with the classical artistry of Chinese blue-and-white ceramics. Brushed atop a cool white field, full peony blossoms enliven the sides with cobalt-blue color. Set against an all-over dotted pattern, the peonies are symbols of summer, love, and affection. Peonies are also closely associated with royalty because they were grown in the imperial gardens of the Sui and Tang dynasties, and symbolize wealth and high honor.

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Blue & White Porcelain

Soon after its development in the Yuan dynasty (1271–1368 AD), blue-and-white underglaze porcelain became a favorite of the imperial court. Its broad appeal rapidly extended beyond China’s borders, becoming a lucrative export commodity highly sought after in Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

Using cobalt imported from Western Asia, ceramic artists ground the mineral into a vibrant blue pigment that was then painted directly on a porcelain base, coated with clear glaze, and fired. This underglaze technique brought with it a shift in focus from the overall shape of a vessel to the skill and artistry traceable in its painted decoration.

Transcending time and taste, blue-and-white porcelain continues to be appreciated around the world for the intricate brushwork and brilliant blue color.