Chinese Calligraphy Brush With Carved Red Coral Handle and Bone Ferrule, Circa 1920–1950

A distinctive Chinese calligraphy brush featuring a handle composed of carved red coral branch segments mounted above a bone ferrule and natural hair bristles. Dating to the early-to-mid 20th century, the brush combines the practical function of a scholar's writing tool with the decorative appeal of finely worked natural materials.

The coral handle displays beautiful variation in color and texture, retaining a warm, mellow surface developed through age and handling. Suspended from its original hanging cord, the brush makes an appealing addition to a collection of scholar's objects, Asian decorative arts, or a thoughtfully arranged desk or bookshelf.  Whether displayed alone or grouped with ink stones, brush pots, and other objects associated with the scholar's studio, it offers both visual interest and cultural character.  Measures 11 inches long.

COLLECTOR'S NOTE
Calligraphy brushes have long been among the most important tools of the Chinese scholar. Examples incorporating coral, ivory, bone, jade, or other precious materials were often created as objects of refinement intended for display as much as daily use. Today they are appreciated both as writing implements and as decorative expressions of the scholar's art.