1149 - Sculptural brush-washer (Bǐ xǐ diāosù) in the shape of a duck, carved from ivory, China, Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD)

Sculptural brush-washer (Bǐ xǐ diāosù) in the shape of a duck, carved from ivory, China, Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD) Dimensions: 20 x 12 cm. Carved from ivory, this refined sculptural brush-washer (笔洗雕塑 – Bǐ xǐ diāosù) takes the form of a duck, a symbol of love and eternal fidelity in Chinese culture. Used in the studios of calligraphers and painters as one of the “four treasures of the studio,” it was used to rinse or clean brushes during artistic practice. The piece retains traces of gold leaf gilding and displays the characteristic crystallization of ivory, confirming its medieval origin. Accompanied by a CITES certificate attesting to the legal origin of the material. Item is stored in an international warehouse (within the EU). Intra-EU shipping: no import duties apply within the EU. An export permit from the country of origin may be required. This lot contains items subject to CITES regulations, Regulation (EC) No. 338/97, and/or other applicable regulations. Due to restrictions on international trade in protected species, this lot may not be shipped outside the European Union.