Inkstone and cover with mandarin ducks in a lotus pond

11th–12th century

Not on view

The simple, functional form of this work is typical of Song literati inkstones. Its cover is finely carved with a pair of mandarin ducks swimming in a lotus pond. The low-relief birds and lotus are further animated by lightly engraved ripples and windswept clouds. Similar patterns found on contemporary ceramics as well as on metalwork in gold or silver attest to the extensive exchange of motifs across different media at this time.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Inkstone and cover with mandarin ducks in a lotus pond
Period: Song dynasty (960–1279)
Date: 11th–12th century
Culture: China
Medium: She stone
Dimensions: L. 4 1/4 in. (10.8 cm)
Classification: Inkstone
Credit Line: Purchase, Friends of Asian Art Gifts, 2020
Object Number: 2020.331a, b
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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