Desk set - Porcelain - China - 20th century

Delicious desk set consisting of:
- A stackable cylindrical container in white and blue porcelain, typical of Asian craftsmanship (Chinese or Japanese) from the mid-20th century.
This kind of three-tier stacked object is historically known as Jūbako (in Japanese tradition) or multi-level desk/ink-stone box (in Chinese tradition); it is composed of three visible cylindrical levels (two lower compartments and a upper section with the lid). The modules lock perfectly one onto the other along the edges, with the porcelain profiles left partly unglazed at contact points to prevent fusion during firing.
The surface is entirely hand-painted with cobalt blue underglaze. The decorative motifs are phytomorphic in character:
The lid features a motif of stylized waves and foamy crests (marine motif), creating a dynamic contrast with the floral motifs beneath.
The lower compartments display a dense continuous pattern of volutes, leaves, and climbing tendrils (karakusa or vegetal scroll style), finely delineated with delicate strokes and brush-filled shading.
On the bottom there is a red lacquer export seal.
- A flattened globular vase in monochrome blue porcelain, characterized by a round body and a short, narrow lip, echoes the classic forms of Chinese ceramic desk objects and specifically is a water container (Water Coupe / 水丞 - Shuǐchéng) of small size (fits in the palm of a hand). Its main function was to hold water used in the study of Chinese literati. It was used to dilute solid ink rubbed on the inkstone or to gently rinse the tips of calligraphy brushes.
Also stamped on the bottom with red lacquer seal.
These seals are formally known as Jian Ding (鉴定) seals. They were affixed by Chinese government authorities (such as the Cultural Property Office of various provinces or cities) starting from the mid-20th century.
In the center are the Chinese characters 鉴定 (Jiàndìng), literally meaning "Certified", "Appraised" or "Approved".
This seal functioned as a customs stamp for export. It certified that the object had been properly examined by governmental experts and that, not being considered an invaluable historic piece or a protected national treasure, it could be legally sold and taken out of China.
Dimensions of the three-tier ink container: height 8.5 cm x 10.5 x 10.5 cm and weight 656 g
Dimensions of the brush rinse: height 9.5 cm x 10 x 10 cm and weight 384 g
Total weight 1040 g - intact with no breaks or restorations
Shipped insured with professional packing.