This inkstone has a smooth ivory-glazed surface and an ogival well at one end.Inkstones were made in a range of forms including crabs and the 11th-13th century form of lotus petal dish with unglazed interior thought to have been used at a scholar’s desk.Vietnam has a distinctive ceramic tradition that uses local materials and potting styles. Technically not ‘porcelain’, which is translucent and pure white, these stonewares are different in appearance from Chinese and other Southeast Asian ceramics.