This is a carved porcelain brush pot (known as bitong in Chinese) dating to the Daoguang period (1821–1850) of the Qing Dynasty.
Carved porcelain was a distinctive craft of the era: artisans carved detailed motifs directly into the porcelain body before glazing and firing, creating a vivid, three-dimensional effect. This piece features a high-relief design of swallows in flight (a symbol of spring and good fortune in Chinese culture) paired with weeping willow branches and grasses—a classic "bird-and-flower" (huaniao) theme favored in literati art.
The glaze is a warm, earthy yellowish-brown (mimicking the texture of aged bamboo or wood), enhancing the naturalistic feel of the carving. The cylindrical shape is typical of brush pots, which were essential desk utensils for scholars to hold writing brushes. The base bears a seal mark (likely a maker’s or period mark), a common feature of formal Qing-dynasty porcelain wares.
Works like this reflect the Daoguang period’s preference for delicate, nature-inspired craftsmanship, blending practicality with the refined aesthetic of traditional Chinese scholar culture.Dia:3.35''(8.5cm). Height:4.7''(12cm)
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