Brush cup

Ivory ornaments were made in China as early as the Neolithic period. But at that time it performed primarily ceremonial functions. Later it began to serve a decorative and utilitarian function. It became a popular material again during the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1911) dynasties, when various items were made from it, including: stationery. During the Ming and Qing eras, bamboo carving flourished, and techniques used in wood were transferred to ivory carving, in which raised relief was made by removing parts of the background. More sophisticated forms began to be carved. Ivory carving has achieved such high aesthetic value and craftsmanship that it has gained universal admiration and recognition. The brush container was formed from a fragment of an elephant's tusk, preserving the original shape of the bone. In the form of a hollow cylinder, without a bottom. The outer surface is decorated with figural scenes in a landscape made in deep relief. The precision of workmanship is very high. On one side, a high, two-story palace is depicted, in front of which an official sits at a table. Two women and a boy stand nearby, as well as a servant carrying a tray with a teapot and a goblet. On the other side of the vessel, a battle scene takes place against the background of architecture and park scenery. It features a mounted figure with a spear. The remaining combatants have pennants, shields, melee weapons and firearms. Above the base there is a border with a motif of bamboo leaves, plum flowers and bunches of pine needles. This is a very popular motif in Chinese decorative art: "three friends in winter".