Carved Lacquer Brush and Cover

Ming dynasty, 16th - 17th century

Decorated with vertical rows of calligraphy in running script, this beautifully carved lacquer brush most likely belonged to the late Ming calligrapher and poet Huang Ruheng. His calligraphic style was inspired by Song masters, such as Su Shih and some of his work was included in the Ming period painting and calligraphy album, Tangshi Huapu (Paintings of Tang Dynasty Poems).