Chinese blue/white porcelain drumform water pot/weight

This solid porcelain water pot fits comfortably in the hand and its size and heavy weight indicates dual use as a paperweight for the calligrapher’s table. The form is that of a Chinese drum with bosses encircling the perimeter of the top and bottom imitating nail heads. The underglaze blue decoration is hastily painted with floral-like flourishes around the side. The top is painted with four Chinese characters around the central opening for containing water. The piece has seen considerable use as evidenced by a number of small chips, nicks, scratches and general wear, though no serious damage is apparent. The base in unglazed and although the porcelain paste is visible, it is fairly soiled from years of use.

Height: 1 5/8 in.; Diameter: 3 5/8 in.