Object of the Month: January 2024

Brush Pot

Chosen by: Shani Collis, Collections Access Officer

Unknown maker, porcelain, 17th century

Purchased from DJK Wright

January’s object of the month is this brush pot from China. It was made in the 17th century in the transition period between the end of the incumbent Ming dynasty and the emergence of the Qing dynasty and features a dragon chasing a pearl.

2024 is the year of the Dragon. The Dragon is the 5th animal in the Chinese zodiac. Dragons are often seen with pearls on Chinese ceramics and in art. Dragons traditionally brought rain, and pearls are a symbol of increase and abundance.

The Object of the Month can be seen in person throughout January at Leicester Museum & Art Gallery.