Description:
A vintage Chinese calligraphy set presented in a textile-covered fitted box lined in vivid red fabric. The lid bears the phrase 文房四寶 — “Four Treasures of the Scholar’s Studio” — the classical term for the essential tools of Chinese calligraphy and brush painting.
The set includes a carved ink stone, decorative ink stick, carved stone seal/chop, two bamboo-handled brushes, a round porcelain seal paste container, a porcelain brush rest, a small porcelain water dropper and a brass spoon arranged in fitted compartments. The contents appear minimally used and well preserved overall.
The phrase on the lid refers to brush, ink, inkstone, and paper — the four tools considered indispensable to the scholar’s practice in classical China. Sets like this one evoke the lattice-windowed study rooms of traditional Chinese garden architecture, where a scholar would have kept brushes, ink, and writing tools close at hand.
Condition:
Vintage condition. Ink stick appears unused. Seal paste remains covered. Brush tips are stiff from age and have not been tested for use. One fabric closure tie was reattached prior to listing; the box closes and presents well. Minor wear consistent with age and storage.
Approximate Dimensions:
8-1/2" long x 5-3/4" wide x 1-1/2" tall
Weight: 14.46 oz (0.91 lb)
Style Tip:
Display open on a writing desk, library table, or bookshelf to highlight the fitted arrangement of calligraphy tools, or closed to focus attention on the textile-covered box and calligraphic label.
Books, plants, flowers, and other styling props are not included. Listing is for the calligraphy set only.
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Orders are typically processed within 3 business days.
No returns or exchanges — all sales are final. Please review photos and descriptions carefully before purchasing.
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