Water vessel

China

18th century

White jade with yellow-brown clouds

Minneapolis Institute of Art

A white jade vessel with irregular brown inclusions is carved with decorative elements around its base and rim. Carved in the form of a <I>ling zhi</I> fungus, the plant of immortality, this water basin has smaller fungi carved in relief on its outer surface. The yellow-brown clouds on the surface of the jade are artificially created to enhance the object's aesthetic appeal. The small basin likely functioned as a brush washer for the scholar's desk. Gallery G210 Gift of Alfred F. Pillsbury