As there is no red jade in China, red agate is traditionally employed as a substitute. The washer pictured here is used by artists to clean their brushes. The implement is carved in the shape of a tree trunk, coiled with branches and leaves, and has the representation of a white bat clinging to it, and a peach by its side. The strong contrast between the red container and the white bat is particularly striking.
At first glance, it is difficult to believe that the bat has not been added separately. But in fact, the two colors were contained in the original piece of agate. The sculptor ingeniously incorporated the natural qualities of the stone to create a masterpiece. According to Chinese tradition, the peach symbolizes longevity, the bat a state of bliss. The container is therefore regarded as a blessing for its owner as well as an object of beauty and usefulness.
