백자청화 잉어모양 연적 조선|白磁靑 鯉魚形 硯滴 朝鮮|Water dropper in the shape of a fish

Art Historical Context

This charming water dropper, shaped like a lively carp, exemplifies the refined porcelain artistry of Korea's Joseon dynasty (1392–1910). Crafted in the late 19th century, it measures just 3/4 inch high and 3 inches in diameter, perfect for a scholar's desk. Known as a *yeonjeok* (硯滴), it held water to moisten inkstones during calligraphy and painting—essential tools in the Confucian literati culture that prized scholarly pursuits. Made of white porcelain (*baekja*) decorated with underglaze cobalt blue, the piece showcases a technique influenced by Chinese blue-and-white wares but distinctly...