Water Dropper for Sumi Painting

Item

Title

Water Dropper for Sumi Painting

Creator

Masami MARUTA
Japanese, 1925–1979

Date

1967

Materials

Kuromuta stoneware

Measurements

2-1/2 x 4 in. (6.4 x 10.1 cm)

Description

Water droppers (suiteki) are used to add water to the ink stone to achieve ideal consistency. This is done by covering and uncovering the small air vent located on the top of the pieces to control the amount of water dripping from the spout located on their sides. The function of the water dropper explains its small size. It needs to be tiny enough to fit in the palm of one’s hand and be easily maneuvered so water can be added to the ink stone in a controlled way, because if too much water is added, the ink can be ruined.

These water droppers were created by Masami Maruta, one of the best known potters in the Kuromuta region. They are stoneware, meaning they are dense, impermeable, and scratch resistant—perfect for daily use in a painter’s studio.

Source

Palmer Museum of Art, The Pennsylvania State University.

Identifier

86.359

Rights

This image is posted publicly for non-profit educational uses, excluding printed publication. Other uses are not permitted.

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