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Brush Washer in the Shape of Lotus Flowers, Seedpod and Leaves
Brush Washer in the Shape of Lotus Flowers, Seedpod and Leaves
Image © Worcester Art Museum, all rights reserved.

Brush Washer in the Shape of Lotus Flowers, Seedpod and Leaves

Artist
Dateearly 18th century, Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
Mediumpale green nephrite
Dimensions24.1 x 14 cm (9 1/2 x 5 1/2 in.)
ClassificationsJades
Credit LineGift of John and Maria Dirlam
Object number2007.238
DescriptionPale green jade, lotus flower, leaves.
Label TextThe lotus (lian-hua or he hua) is one of the Eight Treasures of Buddhism. Since the flowers of the lotus bloom as its seeds ripen, it symbolizes the truth preached by Buddha that immediately bears fruits of enlightenment. Emerging out of the mud, white, sweet-smelling, inwardly empty and outwardly upright, lotus flowers are also emblematic of pure and faithful spirits. By the Song dynasty the lotus also had become associated with virtuous Confucian gentlemen. Many lotus-shaped vessels were made for courtiers and scholars during the Ming and Qing dynasties. This brush washer includes a hollow, lidded lotus seedpod (lian zi), implying wishes for many upstanding, truth-seeking sons (zi). The wooden base is carved to depict lotus flowers and buds amidst waves and water grasses.ProvenanceJohn and Maria Dirlam, Southbridge, MA
On View
On view
Locations
  • Exhibition Location  Gallery 112
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