Brush rest in the shape of a dragon
Unknown Artist
15th century
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
H. 2 1/8 in. (5.4 cm); W. 6 7/8 in. (17.5 cm); D. 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm)
Classification
Sculpture
Culture & Period
China · Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, Friends of Asian Art Gifts, 2017
Accession Number
2017.131
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze brush rest, crafted in the shape of a sinuous dragon during China's Ming dynasty (13681644), served a practical yet elegant purpose in the scholar's studio. Measuring just over 2 inches high and 7 inches wide, its compact form allowed calligraphers and painters to rest their brushes horizontally, preventing ink from dripping and preserving the tools essential to literati culture. The dragon motif—curled dynamically with scales, claws, and an open maw—transforms a utilitarian object into a symbol of imperial power and auspicious fortune. Dating to the 15th century, this p...