An Antique Chinese Bronze Recumbent Deer-Form Water Dropper

This small antique bronze sculpture is cast in the form of a stylized recumbent animal, a deer, with its head turned. Probably dating from the Ming Dynasty, the object is designed as an East Asian scholar’s water dropper, featuring a circular opening on the back and a secondary aperture at the mouth. The piece exhibits a rounded, simplified form with a deep reddish-brown patina and scattered areas of green verdigris oxidation. The base is flat and shows signs of wear from use. No inscriptions or maker marks are present on the surface. The item shows age-related surface pitting and minor scratches throughout. There are visible areas of verdigris oxidation and wear consistent with age and handling, particularly on the base. Measuring 2.5 inches L x 2 W. With bespoke box measuring 5 x 3.5 x 2 inches H.