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This is a fine Chinese porcelain inkstone in the shape of a curled edged lotus leaf. The piece dates to the late 1700's or early 1800's and is a fine example of a scholor's desk piece with excellent enameling and wonderful construction using a very finely washed porcelain. The feel of the bare porcelain is like silk, which is typical for better pieces of that period. I believe the photos show the true colors well enough. The one side of the well has a dragonfly and the other has a butterfly. The bottom is designed like a lotus leaf and most of the black? veining has been worn away. The ink area has fret work border design in red. It appears that the piece was fired upside down and has the slight indications of spur marks on the top. This piece measures about 7" long by 4 5/8" at the widest point. The piece shows wear of use and age, but there are no chips, cracks or repairs that I can find. This would be a fantastic addition to many a collection ...... $600.00