Studio of Mirror-like Waters 1871 - 1933

"Studio of Mirror-like Waters" is a small inkstone, or "yan", dating back to the Qing dynasty, made by Jian Guzhai. It is a round, black stone with intricate carvings depicting a dragon, phoenix, and floral designs. The inkstone is inscribed with characters in white that indicate the studio where it was made and its function. The image is a clear example of the decorative and functional artwork that was popular during this period, and its presence in the Metropolitan Museum of Art showcases the rich history of inkstone art.