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Hi, I inherited this item several years ago - would like to know what it is?! All I really know about it is that my Grandmother picked it up in China in the 1950s. Any help appreciated!

Beatrice,

It is a brushwasher. It holds water and the calligraphy brush is dipped in the water to clean it. It appears it is in the shape of a (somewhat flattened) peach - a symbol of longevity. I think there are smaller peaches in the carving. Also, there is a bat - a symbol of good fortune.

It does look like it is white jade.

Cheers,
Stan

Thanks Stan,

You're right about the peaches - I'd never noticed before! It is very blackened inside, so it makes sense that it is a brush washer. Must be ink residue. Would you have any idea how old it is? I realise it may be difficult to tell from the photos.

Many thanks,
Bea

This is a caveat I should have added to my first post: I am not an expert in jade. You would do well to illicit the opinions of others.

That said, I can't help you with age.

Cheers,
Stan

personally based on the "craftsmanship" styling..it's a work of Qing Dynasty

Dear Beatrice

Possibly modern replica, not true jade, possibly actinolite, hard but not tough, opaque with cloud, not translucent.

The craftsmanship is crude, and stiff, no variation of freehand.

It was artificial stained.

Have fun
Anita

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