Molded gourd water container with crane and deer motifs, Kangxi reign (1662-1722), Qing dynasty

Molded gourd water container with crane and deer motifs, Kangxi reign (1662-1722), Qing dynasty

• Image Number: K1G000272N000000000PAE
• Dynasty: Qing dynasty
• Category: Carvings
• Function: Stationery
• Material: Plants/fruits/gourds
• Description:
  Moulded square gourd is filled with water, with a round mouth, the edge of the mouth is inlaid with tortoise shell, the inside is painted with black paint, and the bottom has four square feet. The four walls are respectively molded with patterns of crane dance, deer singing, pine and crane holding chi, and auspicious deer and crane holding chi, implying the auspicious implication of deer and crane (homophonic six in one) sharing spring and holding chi offering chi. The image of the main animal is high and drum, and the pattern of the side lining creates the interest of deep carving and shallow carving. There are four characters in regular script of “Made by Emperor Kangxi” on the bottom. Simple in shape and refined in design, it is an extremely elegant study treasure.