#3 green and brown glazed pottery Asian water dropper?

This was sold as a puzzle jug but I don't think this would be much of a puzzle. I think it's a water dropper for calligraphy ink. What do you think? Any other insights you can offer would be great.

 

Dimensions?

Does that second opening on the side go through to the same reservoir as the one on top?

 

4 1/2" by 4" and 3 1/2" tall.

I put water in the top and it came out of the side opening.

 

It's kind of big for a water dropper because it really fills the hand and my thumb is just large enough to block the top hole. That's why I'm not sure.

 

Yeah, that's what I was thinking. Too big and a rather awkward shape. I don't think I've ever seen one with 2 openings - not that they might not exist.

If I saw it in front of me, I would think first of a modern studio pottery vase.

 

Asian water droppers do have 2 holes. You cover one with your thumb to control the flow from the other.

 

Really. Well, you learn something new every day. Maybe I just haven't looked closely enough. Plus it's been close to 30 years since I was collecting ink boxes and brush washers. My, how time flies!

 

I only know from watching one of the experts on BBC Antiques Roadshow demonstrate how one works. I wouldn't have known water droppers existed without that show.

 

& I wouldn't know what one even looked like ....without you VR.....so....thanks for paying it forward !

Instant Karma !