This is a Chinese carved bamboo brush pot, also known as a bitong. These cylindrical containers are used to hold calligraphy brushes and are a traditional part of a Chinese scholar's desk accessories. The brush pot is made from a single section of bamboo, which has been intricately carved. The carvings often depict scenes from classical literature, landscapes, or figures. Brush pots have a long history in Chinese art, with the art form reaching its peak during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
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