A Chinese blanc-de chine cup in the form of a veined lotus leaf, on a wood stand.
A Chinese blanc-de chine cup in the form of a veined lotus leaf, on a wood stand.
Four similar examples are in the Dresden collection (PO 8305, PO 8306, PO 8316, PO 688).
Lotus was a particularly popular theme for small scholarly items and especially for brush washers and water droppers. it is often used as a metaphor for the poor scholar, who might be able to achieve success by working hard and passing the imperial examinations.