Lot 3638. An imitation rootwood reticulated brushpot, Qing dynasty, 18th-19th century; 17.5 cm., 6 7/8 in. Estimate 120,000 — 180,000 HKD - Unsold. Photo: Sotheby's

of circular form, formed from a hollowed-out trunk section of an aged tree, further carved and heavily reticulated with gnarled sinuous branches intertwining with each other around the sides and inset with a disc-shaped base fitted with a central domed plug, the lustrous wood patinated to a rich dark-brown colour

This brushpot is reminiscent of the imitation rootwood screen, offered in this sale as lot 3602, with similar pattern of the 'roots'. See also a 17th century rootwood brushpot, signed Fang Gulin, sold in our London rooms, 15th May 2013, lot 66.

Sotheby's. Contemporary Literati — A Gathering, Hong Kong, 07 april 2014