Inkwell; China, Qing Dynasty, 20th century.

Inkwell; China, Qing Dynasty, 20th century.
Jade.
Size: 3 x 6 x 4.5 cm.
Inkwell in the shape of a gourd. In China, the gourd or double gourd is a symbol of the unity between heaven and earth. Gourds were thought to have mystical healing properties and were a symbol of fertility. They are also a Taoist emblem of immortality.
Inkwells are one of the objects that make up the group of lettering implements of great importance throughout the history of Chinese art. They are generally high quality pieces, made of highly valued materials such as porcelain, jade, etc.