Ink Stick

Currently not on view

Ink Stick

19th century

Artist/maker unknown, Chinese

This ink stick is part of a set, and with its fitted box was not meant for actual use, but was made as a gift, perhaps in celebration of passing the notoriously difficult civil service examination. The imagery of the set would be appropriate for such a use: one side of each stick shows a portrait of a renowned Chinese scholar of the Tang dynasty (618-907).

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Ink Stick

Date:

19th century

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Chinese

Medium:

Ink with gilt decoration

Dimensions:

2 3/8 × 1 3/16 × 3/16 inches (6 × 3 × 0.5 cm)

Classification:

Tools/Equipment

Credit Line:

Gift of Frank Donaldson, 1972

Accession Number:

1972-162-3

Geography:

Made in China, Asia

Context:

Dynasty: Qing Dynasty (1644-1911)

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.

Currently not on view