The present group most likely functioned as a water vessel for the scholar’s table, the large curved lotus leaf forming the water basin from which water could be transferred onto the inkstone. Thematically, visual elements in the group refer to purity (the lotus), harmony (the word he for box being a homonym for the word for harmony as well as the word for lotus) and the Daoist concept of universal balance in the unity of opposites (yin-yang).

The carving is of rare quality for its delicate, refined execution, primarily regarding the hair and facial features of the boy as well as the openworked areas. Of equally high quality are the aesthetically balanced proportions of the group and the inventiveness of the design; the latter above all reflected by the artistry and finesse with which the contrast in the two-colour jade has been utilised by the artist.