A HUANGHUALI BRUSHPOT WITH CALLIGRAPHY BY LUO PIN (1733-1799) QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY, DATED TO THE BINGZI YEAR (1756)

carved with a simple blossoming prunus branch extending on one side and a couplet in cursive script, dated Bingzi jiu qiu (in accordance with 24 September – 23 October 1756) and signed Liangfeng ('Double Peaks'), the densely grained wood richly patinated to a dark reddish brown colour

The brushpot is in overall good condition. There are some expected surface scratches and few minute dents on or along the edge of the mouth rim. There are some typical age cracks extending from the plug on the base, including three slightly more opening than the others and showing through on the interior. There is some slight natural discolouration to the surface patina in areas or old occasional ink stains, both on the interior and on the exterior. The actual colour is somewhat warmer and the surface patina more lustrous, less dry, when compared to the catalogue illustration.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The inscription on this brushpot may be translated as follows:

'Out in open country a flute plays twice, And at water’s edge a crane calls once.'
Dated to the Autumn of the 9th month of the bingzi year (24th September-23rd October 1756).

This beautiful brushpot bears the calligraphy of Luo Pin (1733-1799), zi Dunfu, hao Liangfeng, who was later known as Hua si zhi seng (Monk of the temple of flowers). A native of Yangzhou in Jiangsu province, Luo excelled in flower, figure and landscape paintings as well as calligraphy. He studied under the famous artist Jin Nong (1687-1763), together with whom he is celebrated as one of the Eight Eccentrics of Yangzhou (Yangzhou baguai), a group of artist painters that rejected the orthodox school of painting in favour of a style that was individualistic and expressive. See a brushpot inscribed by Luo Pin, sold at Christie’s New York, 16th September 1998, lot 48. For a huanghuali brushpot by Jin Nong and further reference about the artist, see lot 1038 currently being offered in the present sale.