Carved jade brush container ‘Lotus’, Qing dynasty

A light-coloured carved jade vessel with subtle amber flecks. It has a lobed, rounded, hollow central body that mimics the natural shape of the lotus flower. It is surrounded by relief details of winding branches from which emerge lotus bulbs, broad leaves and lotus roots. At the top, next to the circular mouth, is a small fish with a long tail and a body covered with scales. 

In Chinese culture, the lotus is a symbol of purity, eternal love and harmony in the vital union of marriage. 

Size: 5.5 x 8.1 x 13.2 cm

Weight: 372.6 g