Qing dynasty (1644-1912), Yongzheng period (1723-1735)
porcelain with wucai enamel
3 x 7 x 4.5 inches
2001.63

The scholar’s desk held the essential objects associated with his task—brushes, brush rest, brush holders, ink box, seals, seal paste boxes, water pot, and brush washer. Seen here is a lovely lotus bloom–shape brush washer featuring a surface design of undulating leaves and stems. The blue lotus shape is a perfect form for a scholar’s brush washer as it symbolizes cleanliness.  

Eberhard, p. 169