Qing Dynasty Imitation Ge Ware Toad-shaped Water Dropper from China │ Sturdy and Rustic │ Scholar's Four Treasures │ Golden Threads and Iron Filigree

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52515631617_81f833e0b0_z.jpg ◤Ge Ware: Among the Five Great Kilns of the Song Dynasty—Ru, Guan, Ge, Jun, and Ding—Ge Ware is said to have been founded by a man named Zhang Shengyi in the Loutian area of Longquan. His brother, Zhang Sheng'er, operated a kiln in Longquan as well, known as the Younger Brother's Kiln. Ge Ware clay is slightly purplish with a thin body, primarily in oil grey, beige, and powder blue glazes, characterized by an all-over network of crackles, also referred to as "golden threads and iron filigree." Due to the high iron content in the clay, oxidation during firing gives the ceramic body a purplish-black, iron-like hue. The unglazed base reveals the original iron color of the clay, known as "iron feet," while the thinner glaze at the rim appears purplish, termed "purple mouth." Ge Ware ceramics possess a dignified and rustic form, with a glaze akin to an opaque, milky glaze that emits a soft luster. Its signature feature is the crackle pattern, often resembling a web of ice cracks, though some pieces exhibit very fine, small cracks known as "hundred fragments." Ge Ware items are typically small, such as small water containers, brush rests, inkstone warmers, and porcelain pillows. As genuine Ge Ware pieces are exceedingly rare, they have been treasured throughout history. To meet collectors' demand, imitations have been produced across dynasties; for instance, the Xuande Emperor of the Ming Dynasty commissioned the imperial ceramic factory at Jingdezhen to produce imitations of Song Dynasty Ru and Ge wares. A vessel for dripping water onto an inkstone is called a "water dropper." Those with a spout are known as "water dispensers" (水注), and those without are called "water basins" (水丞). Inkstone droppers, also known as "ink droppers" (硯滴), are among the ancient implements of the scholar's study, used to hold water for grinding ink. The emergence of inkstone droppers is closely linked to the rise of brush and ink usage. Initially, ancient scholars found it difficult to control the water flow when pouring water into the inkstone pool from ordinary water pots or containers. Thus, they improved and invented pouring tools that allowed for easier water control, leading to the development of inkstone droppers, also called water droppers, water dispensers, or toad droppers (蟾注). Inkstone droppers are crafted with exquisite workmanship. Besides metal, jade, and agate, they are mostly made of ceramics. Their designs are also exceptionally ingenious, rivaling the artistry of later Yixing clay teapots. Most inkstone droppers are elegant and unique, exuding a rich Chinese ancient artistic essence. https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52516374864_2ebd4d28d0_z.jpg ◤Material: Ceramic ◤Dimensions: Top diameter approx. 7 cm; Base diameter approx. 3 cm; Height approx. 7 cm ◤Weight: Approx. 162 g ◤Capacity: Approx. 100 cc ◤Price: $15,000 ◤Origin: China ◤Quantity: This is a unique piece, a nearly century-old imitation Ge Ware water dropper, highly collectible for those who admire Ge Ware porcelain. Here are the methods for ceramic care: 1. Hand wash ceramics, as their glaze and body are delicate and can be easily scratched. Avoid using rough cloths to prevent surface abrasions. 2. When washing with water, the water temperature should not exceed 70 degrees Celsius. Do not soak ceramics in hot water for extended periods, as it may affect their aesthetic appearance. 3. After washing, allow ceramics to air dry naturally or wipe them with a soft cloth. Do not place them in high-temperature drying equipment such as disinfection cabinets. 4. For stains on ceramics, it is recommended to clean them immediately. Do not let stains remain on the surface for a long time. If the stain is tea or coffee, lemon juice or vinegar can be used for cleaning. 5. During winter washing, control the water temperature to prevent ceramics from cracking due to freezing or sudden contact with hot water. It is best to use wooden or plastic basins for washing, avoiding ceramic or cement basins to prevent damage. ※ Items over ten years old are all new and unused. As they are vintage purchases, they may bear traces of time. Buyers who are extremely particular about perfect quality are advised to visit the store for selection. Thank you. ※ If needed, please inquire first if the item is still available. Do not place an order directly. Thank you. ※ Decorative props and accessories shown in the pictures are not included with this item. ※ Due to variations in shooting light and camera color bias, there may be slight differences. The actual product is the primary reference. If the item is not damaged, returns or exchanges will not be accepted for reasons such as the product not meeting expectations (color, style, pattern, size, etc.). We appreciate your understanding. ※ Rare item, only one available. ※ All items are collected vintage pieces over ten years old, not artificially aged. If you have any doubts, please do not place an order. Thank you! ※ We strive to provide complete descriptions and photographs. Buyers are encouraged to judge the item's value independently. Vintage items do not come with a warranty or a trial period. Once sold, returns or exchanges will not be accepted. Vintage items may show signs of age, such as oxidation, paint loss, or scuff marks, which are normal phenomena. Please consider carefully and only place an order if you can accept these imperfections!