Large "Bitong" jade brush container, with Qianlong seal.

Carved in the center of the base has a square seal of four Qianlong characters 乾隆年制. The jade is deep spinach green with darker shades, and translucent.

This large vessel is cylindrical in shape and the exterior is carved in half relief with scholars in a mountainous landscape with pine trees and pagodas. The scene is well composed and the carving has details of great quality and naturalism, along with its large size and weight demonstrate the expertise needed in making this piece. The style of the scene was inspired by traditional Chinese scroll painting, which is deeply rooted in the art of China. At the same time, the use of brush pots is associated with scholars, whose popularity was on the rise during the Qing dynasty because the Qianlong emperor was a lover of poetry and calligraphy.

It is in excellent state of preservation. 

Height: 19 cm; Diameter: 17 cm

Weight: 3,506 g

Provenance:

Private collection, France.