StorageTube, either 1670 or 1730
Tsun-chiangexpand_more
Tzu-t'an hardwood inlaid with silver wireexpand_more
Gift of Ruth and Bruce Daytonexpand_more 2000.36.6a,b
Not on Viewexpand_more
This round tzu-t'an tube with its screw-on fu-dog top could have been used to store exotic incense sticks, a favorite writing brush, special chopsticks, or more likely cricket-tickling sticks. Unfortunately, the long, carefully inlaid inscription provides no clue as to the container's exact purpose. It reads in part:
In the distance is a misty grove -- viewing the spring colors in Chiang-nan
Everything here is worth remembering.
The sorrows of rivers and mountains have not been thoroughly tasted...
In the sunset under the willow trees, in whose courtyard am I in tying up the horse's reigns'
It is signed Tsun-chiang mo-ku (in imitation of the ancient) with a cyclical date of keng-hsu corresponding to either 1670 or 1730. While very few inlayers of wood are recorded, silver-wire inlay is a characteristically Chinese art practice. This exquisitely crafted tube is a rare signed and dated literati object, however, and is thought to be unique.
Details
- Title
- StorageTube
- Artist Life
- active late 17th -early 18th century
- Role
- Artist
- Dimension
- L.9-3/8 x Dia.9/16 in. (overall)
- Accession Number
- 2000.36.6a,b
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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