Lot 390
**Originally Listed At $300**
East Asia, Korea, Joseon Dynasty, ca. late 19th century. A petite yet imaginative object of the scholar's desk, this porcelain water dropper takes the lively form of a fish, its rounded body animated with swirling cobalt-blue decoration. Both playful and purposeful, it reflects the refined wit that often accompanied the tools of Joseon literati culture. Porcelain water droppers were essential components of the scholar's writing implements, used to control the flow of water onto the ink stone during the grinding of ink. Rather than strict utilitarian shapes, Joseon artisans favored organic and symbolic forms, transforming everyday objects into quiet companions for contemplation. Fish, likely carp, were especially popular, associated with abundance, perseverance, and scholarly success. Size: 2.9" L x 2.2" W x 1.5" H (7.4 cm x 5.6 cm x 3.8 cm)
This example is molded in the round, with delicately incised fins and scrolling patterns that animate the surface. The cobalt-blue glaze pools and softens across the white porcelain body, creating a rhythmic interplay of color and line. A small aperture on the back allows water to be filled, while a discreet spout releases it in careful measure, emphasizing control and precision in the act of writing. Water droppers of this type range from plain to richly decorated, and the generous use of blue here situates the piece within a decorative tradition that flourished in the later Joseon period. Both charming and functional, this fish-form water dropper embodies the balance of discipline and whimsy at the heart of the scholar's world, where even the smallest object could carry aesthetic delight and symbolic meaning.
Provenance: private California, USA collection acquired prior to 2005
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#199600
- Condition: Some light surface wear with a few nicks as shown, but, otherwise, intact and very nice with liberal remaining detail and lustrous glaze.
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| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |