Minneapolis Institute of Art

Brushrest

Shen Ch’uan-lin

Date

early 18th century

Medium

Carved bamboo root

Department

Asian Art

Institution

Minneapolis Institute of Art

This brushrest is a recognized masterpiece of Shen Chuanlin, whose square seal is carved into the side of the work. Meticulously fashioned from bamboo root, the piece features a finely detailed blossoming plum branch and a spray of bamboo, two plants that symbolize scholarly virtue. The miniature sculpture can support three brushes simultaneously. Brushrests allowed painters to set down a wet brush so its bristles would not touch a table or stain paper. Artists made brushrests from a variety of materials, including stone, metal, and ceramics. This refined example, executed in organic taste (an appreciation for natural forms) emphasizes contemplative communion with nature. China, Asia

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