Ink Tablet 1662 - 1722

This small, intricately carved "Ink Tablet" by Xiu Fangzhai, dating from 1662-1722, is a prime example of Chinese art. It is made of a black material, possibly stone or jade, and features a delicate, circular design on the top, surrounded by stylized clouds and flowers. The central design features a calligraphic inscription in Chinese characters. The ink tablet is an essential object for Chinese calligraphy, and this small piece, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, is a beautiful and historically important example of this art form.