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Waterdropper in the shape of a mythical beast

17th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 216
On loan to The Met
This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.
Water droppers are used to drip water onto an inkstone as an ink cake is ground onto its surface, creating liquid ink. They often took the form of a mythical beast whose open mouth served as a spout, while a round hole on the back—when covered by a finger—controlled the amount of water released.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 明　銅犧形水滴
  • Title: Waterdropper in the shape of a mythical beast
  • Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
  • Date: 17th century
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Copper alloy
  • Dimensions: H. 4 in. (10.1 cm); W. 5 9/16 in. (14.2)
  • Classification: Metalwork
  • Credit Line: Lent by Shanghai Museum
  • Rights and Reproduction: Photograph courtesy of Shanghai Museum
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art