Topic: Just what IS this?

[Elaine]

Here's another from my great-aunt's collection.  I have no idea what it is, but thought it might possibly be a pen or brush holder.  It is 2 and 1/2 by 1 and 7/8th inches and 1 and 5/8th inches high.  There are no marks on the base. 

Age?  Origin?  Purpose?  All input welcome!   

[Tigerchips]

Just browsing the old topics. 

Yes, it looks like it has two inkwells, a compartment for holding pens and what looks like a letter holder.

[keith]

I've seen that Chinese character on lots of things,any idea what it stands for,TC?

[Tigerchips]

No idea, maybe it's love related?

[Mosquito]

It's an interesting item. Definitely Chinese. As Tigerchips says, it looks to be a brush holder, however, I've not seen one in this form before. The pierced section reminds me of oriental ceramic pillows, I don't know why it would have this part, its possibly a container for something. The glaze is a Jun type.

I don't recognise the character, it could be an archaic style of character, I'll ask my 老婆

[keith]

Think the character means 'long life',no help otherwise,
                                          Keith.