Imitation Ge Ware Brush Washer, Qing Dynasty China │ The Four Treasures of the Study, Scholars, Elegant and Dignified

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52516254281_35ba688054_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 Sheng-yi in Liutian, Longquan. His brother, Zhang Sheng-er, also had a kiln in Longquan, known as the Younger Brother's Kiln. Ge Ware clay is slightly purplish with a thin body, typically featuring glazes in oily grey, beige, and powder blue. Its surface is adorned with crackle patterns (also known as "golden threads and iron lines"). Due to the high iron content in the clay, the oxidation during firing results in a purplish-black iron color on the bisque. The unglazed base reveals the original iron color of the clay, referred to as "iron feet," while the thinner glaze at the mouth exhibits a purplish hue, known as "purple mouth." Ge Ware ceramics are characterized by their dignified and ancient forms. The glaze resembles a milky emulsion, exuding a layer of luster. A notable feature is its crackle, with most appearing as a network of ice cracks, and some forming very fine small fragments, termed "hundred-chi fragments." Ge Ware items are relatively few, primarily small objects such as small water containers, brush rests, inkstone warmers, and porcelain pillows. As genuine Ge Ware pieces are exceptionally rare, they have been revered as treasures throughout history. To meet the demands of collectors, imitations have been produced in every dynasty. For instance, Emperor Xuande of the Ming Dynasty commissioned the imperial porcelain factory in Jingdezhen to replicate Song Dynasty Ru and Ge Ware. The glaze is covered in crackle (fissures). Upon close inspection, one can discern two types of lines, coarse and deep, or fine and shallow, interwoven, commonly known as "golden threads and iron lines." Magnification reveals numerous tiny bubbles within the glaze, resembling small water droplets, historically referred to as "accumulated pearls and clustered spheres," one of the most wondrous characteristics of Ge Ware. A brush washer, also known as an ink washer, is a utensil belonging to the Four Treasures of the Study (brush, ink, paper, inkstone), used for holding water to rinse brushes. Brush washers typically feature an open mouth and a shallow body, with a smooth rim designed not to damage brush hairs. There is a wide variety of brush washers, generally refined and understated. Those that have survived are mostly artistic treasures. They are made from various materials, often precious ones like porcelain, jade, agate, enamel, and ivory, further enhancing their exquisiteness. Among all types of brush washers, porcelain ones are the most common. The earliest excavated examples date back to the Five Great Kilns of the Song Dynasty (Ge/Guan/Ru/Ding/Jun). Throughout the ages, brush washers have also been crafted from jade or pottery, showcasing remarkable diversity. Decorative patterns, often floral motifs, are painted on them, neither flamboyant nor delicate, reflecting the ancient simplicity, elegance, and dignity cherished by scholars. Beyond their practical use, brush washers, despite being small study items, exhibit diverse forms and are imbued with rich artistry, aiding in cultivating one's temperament and deeply appreciated by literati who favor an elegant lifestyle. ◤ Material: Porcelain ◤ Dimensions: Diameter approx. 10 cm; Height approx. 4.2 cm ◤ Weight: 302 g ◤ Price: $15,000 ◤ Origin: China ◤ Quantity: This is a unique piece, a brush washer with a history of a hundred years, worthy of collection by enthusiasts of the Four Treasures of the Study. Care instructions for porcelain: 1. When cleaning porcelain, hand wash is recommended as the glaze is delicate and easily scratched. Avoid using rough cloths to prevent surface scratches. 2. When washing with water, the water temperature should not exceed 70 degrees Celsius, and do not soak the porcelain in hot water for extended periods to maintain its aesthetic appearance. 3. After cleaning, allow the porcelain to air dry naturally or wipe it with a soft cloth. Do not use high-temperature drying equipment such as disinfection cabinets. 4. If there are stains on the porcelain, clean them immediately. Do not let stains remain on the surface for long. For tea or coffee stains, lemon juice or vinegar can be used for cleaning. 5. During winter cleaning, control the water temperature to prevent the porcelain from cracking due to freezing or sudden contact with hot water. It is best to use a wooden or plastic basin for cleaning, avoiding porcelain or cement basins to prevent damage. ※ Items over ten years old are considered new and unused. However, due to the long period of ownership, there may be traces of age. Buyers who are particularly concerned about perfect quality are advised to visit the store in person. Thank you. ※ If you are interested, please inquire about availability before placing an order. Do not order directly. Thank you. ※ Decorative props in the images are not included with this item. ※ Due to variations in lighting and camera color bias, the actual product may differ slightly. The physical item should be considered the primary reference. If the product is not damaged, returns or exchanges cannot be made based on expectations of color, style, pattern, size, etc. We appreciate your understanding. ※ Rare item, only one available. ※ The items are vintage collectibles over ten years old and have not been artificially aged. If you have any doubts, please do not place an order. Thank you! ※ We strive to provide comprehensive descriptions and photographs. Buyers are encouraged to assess the value of the item independently. Vintage items do not come with a warranty or a trial period. Once sold, returns or exchanges will not be accepted. Traces of age, such as oxidation, paint chips, and scuff marks, are normal for vintage items. Please consider carefully and only place an order if you can accept these imperfections.