清乾隆 套色玻璃桃形洗|Brush washer in the shape of a peach

Unknown

18th century · Overlay glass · Asian Art

This charming brush washer has been lovingly crafted in the form of a peach. It is made from opaque white glass with daubs of red and pink to simulate the skin of a fully ripe fruit. A green branch with pointed leaves extends from its bottom and winds around one side. A small blue bat with curving wings is perched near the mouth of the vessel. Most appealing of all is a clear, bright red drop of glass that highlights the pointed tip of the fruit. The bottom of the vessel bears a four-character inscription is incised into the surface and filled with gold: “Made in the Qianlong reign era.” The inscription makes it likely that this piece was the product of the imperial workshop. Considering the small size and delicate shape, it is more likely a desktop ornament than a practical object.

Artist

Unknown

Date

18th century

Medium

Overlay glass

Culture

China

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Purchase, Friends of Asian Art Gifts, 2017