백자청화 잉어모양 연적 조선|白磁靑 鯉魚形 硯滴 朝鮮|Water dropper in the shape of a fish

Unknown

late 19th century · Porcelain with underglaze cobalt blue · Asian Art

Porcelain water droppers, part of the Joseon scholar's writing instruments (Brush holder, 11.142.1), were often shaped in whimsical forms. Besides fish (probably carp), fruits like peach, animals like the frog and turtle, and mountains were popular organic forms for the water dropper. Some are undecorated, but many are painted with cobalt blue either in part or whole, as is the case with this piece. Water from the droppers was used for grinding the ink stone to make ink.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 19th century

Medium

Porcelain with underglaze cobalt blue

Culture

Korea

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of Kang Collection, Korean Art, New York, 2003