Chinese Zitan Eagle Bitong

Description

Chinese Zitan eagle bitong, a cylindrical brushpot with an inset base, in heavy, Chinese, Zitan hardwood, having 3/4" thick walls … more Chinese Zitan eagle bitong, a cylindrical brushpot with an inset base, in heavy, Chinese, Zitan hardwood, having 3/4" thick walls and weighing 2 1/2 lbs. The rim and foot are banded with cloud and thunder meanders. The finely carved, bas-relief artwork depicts an eagle soaring over a landscape of pine forested mountains and hermitages, amid the clouds and a setting sun. Four, finely carved, Kaishu script characters in a vertical cartouche separate the sides of the landscape at the back of the brushpot. Circa Republic of China era, no later than mid century. less