Chinese Blue & White Qilin Brush Pot

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Set alongside the four treasures of the study - the calligraphy brush, ink, paper, and inkstone - a brush pot, … Read more 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.

Rendered in cobalt blue atop a cool white field is a Qilin, a chimeric animal from Chinese mythology described as having the head of a dragon, the body of a tiger, the scales of a fish, and the antlers of a deer. Qilin are considered to be good omens and potent symbols of joy, longevity, prosperity, and wisdom. See less