Water Container in the Shape of Pomegranates with a Cicada
Artist
Chinese
Date18th century, Qing Dynasty (1644–1911)
Mediumwhitish nephrite with some russet staining
Dimensions3.8 x 7.6 cm (1 1/2 x 3 in.)
ClassificationsJades
Credit LineBequest of Mrs. Harry W. Goddard, in memory of Harry W. Goddard
Terms
Object number1938.50
DescriptionWhite, with reddish decoration in the form of a peach representing "Immortality". StandLabel TextWater Container in the Shape of Pomegranates with a Cicada Nephrite; some applied coloration; Qing dynasty (1644 - 1911), 18th century Bequest of Mrs. Harry W. Goddard, in memory of Harry W. Goddard, 1938.50 This water container for moistening brushes is shaped like a pomegranate (shi liu) and suggests a rebus signifying joy (shi liu kai xiao kou: "the open pomegranate opens its mouth in laughter"). According to Taoists the pomegranate was an essential ingredient for creating the elixir of immortality. Due to its many seeds it was also considered a fruit of abundance and fertility. The cicada, which emerges out of the earth as pupa to discard its shell-covering, is an emblem of eternal life.ProvenanceMrs. Harry W. Goddard, Worcester MA
On View
On view
Chinese
late 18th–early 19th century, Qing Dynasty (1644–1911)
Chinese
18th century, Qing Dynasty (1644–1911)
Chinese
18th century, Qing Dynasty (1644–1911)
Chinese
Qianlong period (1736–1795) of the Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
Chinese
18th century, Qing Dynasty (1644–1911)