Water dropper in the shape of a mountain citadel

19th century
Not on view
As tools to dispense water droplets to create ink, water droppers are wonderful examples of melding function with ingenious and imaginative design. This water dropper depicts a walled compound on top of a mountain. The artist cleverly applied copper red and cobalt blue to render the mountainous terrain and architectural elements, respectively. The size and rounded form make it easy to hold in one hand and comfortably tilt and allow for controlled decanting.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 청화백자동채 산모양 연적 조선
  • 靑畵白磁銅彩 山形 硯滴 朝鮮
  • Title: Water dropper in the shape of a mountain citadel
  • Period: Joseon dynasty (1392–1910)
  • Date: 19th century
  • Culture: Korea
  • Medium: Porcelain painted in underglaze cobalt and copper red
  • Dimensions: H. 3 3/4 in. (9.5 cm); Diam. 3 5/8 in. (9.2 cm)
  • Classification: Ceramics
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Friends of Asian Art Gifts, 2025
  • Object Number: 2025.521
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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