Artwork Page for Wrist Rest

Details / Information for Wrist Rest

Wrist Rest

1736–95

China, Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Qianlong reign

(1736–95)
Medium
jade
Measurements
Overall: 16.2 cm (6 3/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. John Lyon Collyer in memory of her mother, Mrs. G. M. G. Forman 1970.145
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print
?

Did You Know?

Wrist rests were used to steady the hand while creating graceful brush strokes.

Description

In China, access to political power was granted to those who passed the civil service examinations, a system that offered official service only at a high level of education. Chinese literati-officials, whose daily routine involved administrative work in an office, enjoyed precious objects on their writing desks that offered distraction and demonstrated good taste. By the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1911) dynasties, these utensils of the literati studio also became collectibles and were treasured as artworks.

The front of this jade wrist rest is carved with a design of a pine tree, clouds, and a crane of immortality holding a branch of lingzhi fungus in its mouth. The raised rectangular boss on the back of the wrist rest is inscribed.
Carved from pale, translucent greenish-white jade, this tall, rectangular wrist rest features curved ends. A gnarled tree trunk rises along the left, its branches extending across the center with rounded needle clusters and stylized, horizontal clouds. Near the base, a long-necked bird gazes upward. The polished surface showcases low-relief carvings, interspersed with natural cloudy white and small brownish-orange inclusions within the stone's texture.

Wrist Rest

1736–95

China, Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Qianlong reign (1736–95)

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork