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Brush washer with twin dragons

14th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 221
This charming bronze vessel was designed to hold water for dampening brushes or diluting ink when writing or painting. A pair of sinuous dragons along the rim enlivens the modest object.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 元　銅雙螭洗
  • Title: Brush washer with twin dragons
  • Period: Yuan dynasty (1271–1368)
  • Date: 14th century
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Copper alloy
  • Dimensions: H. 3 7/8 in. (9.8 cm); W. 5 3/4 in. (14.6 cm); D. 4 5/8 in. (11.7 cm)
    H. to rim: 2 7/8 in. (7.3 cm)
    W. at rim: 5 in. (12.7 cm)
  • Classification: Metalwork
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Brooke Russell Astor Bequest, 2014
  • Object Number: 2014.767
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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