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Subject:Chinese Mini Brush Pot with Etched Characters on Base
Posted By: Bill H Sat, Apr 06, 2019 IP: 2601:342:200:2191:3c
I recently acquired this Lilliputian Chinese brush pot (3.25 inches high X 2.125 inches across sides) and hope to confirm my translation of information etched into its base, as well as to get other thoughts on age.
It appears to be a gift for a scholar or scholar-aspirant on the occasion of examinations, either impending of just completed. Since the Examination System was abolished in 1905, I think the piece may be as old as late Qing, but since admiration for scholarly achievement didn't go out of style with the exam system, it may be Republic to mid-20th century.
The etched cursive characters on the base could have been added at just about any time by the person who received it as a gift or by a later owner. I believe the characters may be translated as follows:
升鸠 - From right as "Jiu Sheng" - "Gathered Promotions"
禄寿双全 - From the top down as "Lu Shou Shuang Quan - "Emoluments and Longevity, both (a pair) Completed"
As usual, I'm open to all suggestions and corrections.
Much obliged,
Bill H.
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