Tibetan Temple Boxwood Pen Holder – Classical Four Beauties Carving (5")

This old boxwood pen holder from a Tibetan temple collection is carved with scenes of the Classical Four Beauties of China—Xi Shi, Wang Zhaojun, Diaochan, and Yang Guifei. Each side of the holder reveals a different figure in flowing robes, framed by subtle architectural and garden details.

The warm tone of aged boxwood and the fine line carving give it the atmosphere of a miniature story screen for the scholar’s desk. Originally conceived as a brush pot, it now works equally well for modern pens and pencils, linking everyday writing to a longer tradition of literature and courtly imagery.

Place it on a desk, side table, or bookshelf alongside lacquerware, inkstones, or porcelain pieces to create a small, refined study corner.

Details

• Collection: Tibetan Temple Collection
• Material: Old boxwood, hand-carved
• Motif: Classical Four Beauties in relief around the holder
• Use: Pen/brush holder and decorative office or study ornament
• Placement: Desks, study shelves, altar tables, and Temple & Ritual scholar’s corners