Chinese Famille Rose Leaf-Shaped Water Drip Bowl, Inscribed, Late Qing Dynasty / Republic Period (circa 1904)

Delicately modeled in the form of a curled lotus leaf with an upturned stem handle, this small famille rose porcelain water dropper (drip bowl) is enamelled in pink, green, and black with finely painted veining. The exterior bears a rare black calligraphic inscription reading “Da Qing Guangxu 30th Year, Autumn Maneuvers Commemoration, ” situating its creation around 1904.

Description:

Used in scholars’ studios to control the flow of water when preparing ink, the vessel’s elegant asymmetrical leaf form allows precise dripping and evokes the poetic association between nature and artistic practice. Its soft pastel enamels and refined brushwork exemplify late-Qing literati aesthetics and Republic-era enamel mastery.

Condition: Excellent overall; minor enamel wear and faint glaze crackle consistent with age. Approx. 3.5 x 4.25 inches in dimensions.

Provenance: Private collection, France.