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Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
Paint Brush
Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
© Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami. All rights reserved.

Paint Brush

Artist/Maker (Artist Unknown)
Date19th century or earlier
Mediumjadite and hair
DimensionsOverall: 13 1/8 x 1 3/8 in. (33.3 x 3.5 cm)
ClassificationsTools and Equipment
Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Leon Amar
Terms
    Object number2008.14.34
    DescriptionThe dragon is often depicted chasing an object described as a pearl or jewel, the significance of which has been much debated. The emblem might symbolize the richness conferred by the fertilizing rains caused by the animal, or signify the treasure of the Lord of Waters, who must have many pearls among his possessions. Perals are also identified with the sun and the moon. In the post Song Dynasty periods, two dragons “fighting for the pearl” are a very common motif. Just as the dragon came to represent the emperor, the phoenix or feng-huang came to represent the empress. Paired dragons and the pearl, as well as the phoenix, are etched into the jade handle of this writing brush.
    On View
    On view
    Collections
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    mid 18th century
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    Artist Unknown
    18th century
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    ca. 1675
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    Olmec
    ca. 1500-400 BCE
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    early 18th century
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    Artist Unknown
    late 19th to early 20th century (printed 1992)
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    early 18th century
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    1662-1722
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    1821-1850