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3. Qing Dynasty
3. Qing Dynasty
3-1 From Stationery to Collectibles
3-1 From Stationery to Collectibles
Qing Dynasty scholars' studio items were characterized by rare materials and exquisite craftsmanship. They no longer emphasized mere practicality but shifted focus to their aesthetic appeal and tactile enjoyment, reflecting the literati's pursuit of artistic refinement during that era.
The Qing Dynasty's period of prosperity enabled the imperial court to employ precious and scarce materials in crafting stationery, resulting in a diverse array of highly collectible pieces.
Ivory water container carved in the shape of a melon
This water vessel is crafted from ivory, intricately carved with vines and foliage, while butterflies and beetles rest upon it, lending the entire piece a vibrant, natural vitality.
Moreover, the homophonic association between “melon butterfly” and “melon vine” reflects the owner's blessing and aspiration for an enduring lineage and numerous descendants.
Crystal Yi-Shaped Water Dripper in the Shape of an Animal
This water pitcher is crafted from crystal, its form inspired by ancient bronze animal figurines from the Han Dynasty. It not only evokes the rustic, unassuming charm of bronze beasts but also reflects the owner's pursuit of antique aesthetics and profound affection for such artistry.
When selecting stationery, do you have any preferences regarding materials?
Does this reveal aspects of your past or personality traits?
3-2 Masterful Craftsmanship
3-2 Masterful Craftsmanship
The manufacturing techniques of the Qing Dynasty reached the pinnacle of all dynasties. Their exquisite and intricate designs transformed stationery beyond its traditional form, elevating it into artistic masterpieces with unique aesthetic appeal—crafted treasures that delight owners with their tactile beauty.
Ivory Brush Wiper in the Shape of a Leaf
The inkstone scraper is a tool for adjusting ink consistency and maintaining an even nib. This five-pronged leaf-shaped scraper is carved from ivory and dyed. Its surface features relief carvings of clustered vines, fruits, and insects. The intricate carving and distinct color layers showcase vibrant vitality.
Carved Boxwood Brush Pot with the "elegant Gathering of the Western Garden" Motif
This pen holder is crafted from boxwood, a wood that grows so slowly it has become increasingly rare. It transforms the painting “Gathering in the Western Garden” from a two-dimensional work of calligraphy and painting into a three-dimensional carving. Its intricate spatial design vividly captures the imagination and longing of literati for this refined gathering of the Northern Song Dynasty.
Are you also a perfectionist who believes stationery should feature exquisite designs? Or do you lean toward minimalism, favoring designs that prioritize functionality?
3-3 The Emperors' Study
3-3 The Emperors' Study
This section highlights the Songhua stone inkstone, which rose to prominence within the Imperial Study due to its alignment with Emperor Kangxi's philosophical outlook, showcasing the Qing dynasty court's distinctive taste and aesthetic in writing implements.
Songhua Inkstone with Fitted Box Inlaid with Glass and Fish Fossil
Emperor Kangxi emphasized the practice of investigating things to gain knowledge—that is, exploring the principles of objects through scientific methods such as observation and reflection.
Through investigation and experimentation, it was discovered that Songhua stone possessed exceptional ink-producing properties and originated from the ancestral homeland of the Manchu people.
Consequently, it became the exclusive material for stone inkstones in the Qing imperial court, reflecting the royal court's reverence for rational science and its reverence for Manchu cultural origins.
Copper Brush Rest in the Shape of a Mountain Range with Dragon Pattern in Cloisonné enamels
During his reign, Emperor Kangxi actively promoted innovations in enamel craftsmanship. Qing court archives reveal that behind the imperial court's sponsorship of enamel experimentation lay not only a revival of traditional techniques but also the royal ambition to compete with the West.
Do you also have stationery on your desk that reflects the principles you hold dear or evokes a cherished memory?
3-4 Emperor Qianlong - Natural Simplicity
3-4 Emperor Qianlong - Natural Simplicity
Emperor Qianlong's appreciation of scholar's studio items can be encapsulated in four words: “natural simplicity.” He valued the historical and cultural significance embedded in his collections while also admiring their unadorned, naturally formed aesthetic.
Emperor Qianlong
Emperor Qianlong
Timely Clearing After Snowfall
Beyond its rich artistic value, the “Timely Clearing After Snowfall” scroll also reveals Emperor Qianlong's concern for agriculture and the people's livelihood through his inscribed poems depicting snowy scenes.
It reflects his aspirations for national prosperity and stability—a sentiment that explains why he cherished it so deeply even in his later years. Viewed this way, perhaps it served as Emperor Qianlong's ultimate comforting companion amidst the burdens of state affairs?
Antler Brush Rest
This antler pen stand was crafted from a trophy obtained by Emperor Qianlong during a hunting expedition. It met the criteria for appreciation as both rustic and naturally formed, while embodying the frugality and martial prowess esteemed by the Qing imperial court, earning Qianlong's deep affection.
The emperor also conducted scholarly research on the antler species, inscribing his findings on both sides of the wooden base.
Do you also have items on your desk that evoke entirely different feelings and stir your heart at different stages of life?
The Reproductions
The Reproductions
Ivory water container carved in the shape of a melon
Beyond the three lingzhi mushrooms growing on the base, have you also noticed the butterflies and beetles carved among the vines and foliage on the water vessel?
The “melon-butterfly” motif, formed by the gourd shape and butterfly, corresponds to the homophone melon and vine, fully expressing the owner's aspiration for an enduring lineage and a house full of children.
Timely Clearing after Snowfall Jin dynasty (265–420)
This post features a letter sent by Wang Xizhi of the Jin Dynasty to Zhang Hou of Shanyin. At the center of this scroll, one can see the character “Divine” inscribed by Emperor Qianlong, along with numerous colophons. Although he firmly believed this scroll to be an authentic work at the time, modern research indicates that based on the format, placement, and other details of the recipient's information, it should be considered a Tang Dynasty double-outline tracing copy.
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