Home — Antiques –– Chinese Antiques –– Brush Pots –– Chinoiserie Brush Pots
19th Century Pair of Chinoiserie Brush Pots
(China, late 19th century — gilt-bronze mounts added in France)
A beautiful pair of brush pots, each rendered in fine green lacquer over a bamboo core with elegant gilt-bronze (ormolu) mounts.
Carved in low relief, the surfaces depict serene landscape scenes — pavilions nestled amid pine and cypress trees, rocky outcrops, and flowing waters — all evoking the poetic realm of the Chinese scholar’s studio.
Product Details
Period: Late dynasty, c. mid–late 19th century
Origin: China (lacquerware); gilt-bronze mounts added later in France
Material: Green lacquer on bamboo; gilt-bronze mounts
Height: 17.5 cm (each)
Length: 12.5 cm (each)
Condition: Original lacquer surface with fine age-related craquelure; mounts show patina and gentle wear consistent with age and handling.
Artistry & Significance
Green lacquer is far less commonly seen than the traditional red or black variants, lending a rare vibrancy and freshness to these scholar’s objects.
Rooted in the refined aesthetics of the wenfang—the Chinese literati studio—the brush pot served as both a practical container for calligraphy brushes and an object of contemplative beauty.
The addition of fine gilt-bronze collars in France suggests they were adapted for Western collectors who desired both functionality and classic European decorative flair.
Why Collect These Brush Pots?
Unique color fusion: The green lacquer finish is uncommon among traditional brush pots.
Cross-cultural allure: A harmonious blend of Chinese craftsmanship with French decorative ormolu mounts.
Scholarly connection: The carved literati landscapes celebrate China’s cultural heritage and are highly appealing to both collectors of fine Asian arts and decorative antiques.
Matched pair: Brush pots often appear singly — finding a well-matched pair elevates their value.
Visit A.A. Knoop
To Shop Chinese Antiques
These brush pots from the late Qing Dynasty are available to view and purchase in-store.
A.A. Knoop does not sell items online—visit our store in Amsterdam to explore and acquire pieces from our collection:
Antiques
Discover rare pieces with a story: timeless objects that bring history and character into your home.
More centerpieces for your interior
Fine art
From classic to contemporary, artworks that transform walls into statements of culture and style.
Furniture
Elegant designs that balance function with artistry, curated to refine every living space.
Decoration
Statement accents and rare curiosities that can turn everyday spaces into mini-museums showcasing artistry.
Home — Antiques –– Chinese Antiques –– Brush Pots –– Chinoiserie Brush Pots