Lacquer brush pot

China, Kangxi period, 1662 – 1722

Height: 6 3/8 inches, 16.2 cm
Diameter: 6 inches, 15.2 cm

The very fine carving on this brush pot represents a considerable tour de force by the skilled craftsmen of the Imperial workshops, established under the Kangxi emperor (1662-1722), and is complemented by extremely detailed incised work, notably on some of the robes and on the fur of the tiger. A brush pot carved with the same scene is in the collection of the Palace Museum[1]. Other examples with a similar decoration are recorded, but none would appear to be as finely executed as the present example. The Eighteen Luohan, also called Arhat, are the personal disciples of Buddha, those “… who have passed the different stages of the Noble Path, or eightfold excellent way, who [have] conquered all passions, and [are] not to be reborn again”.[2]. The luohan seated in the tree is Pa-no-ka, “… who led a solitary life, free from bodily ailments. He was converted to Buddhism at the age of 120, whereupon he became young and happy.”[3]. The tiger-riding luohan is Po-Lo-to-She, “… showing his power over wild animals, and exemplifying his strength to overcome evil.”[4].