Cup in the shape of a magnolia blossom
The rhinoceros was once widespread in China, but by the first century A.D. it had become an exotic species whose skin was sought after to make armor and whose horns were carved into drinking cups. During the Tang dynasty (618–907), rhinoceros horns were imported into China along with other foreign goods, such as pearls, sandalwood, and camphor. Elaborate rhinoceros-horn cups for drinking wine and other libations were produced widely from the sixteenth century onward.
Artwork Details
- 清 犀角雕玉蘭杯
- Title: Cup in the shape of a magnolia blossom
- Period: Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
- Date: 18th century
- Culture: China
- Medium: Rhinoceros horn
- Dimensions: H. incl. base 11 in. (27.9 cm); W. 5 3/4 in. (14.6 cm); Diam. 6 5/8 in. (16.8 cm)
- Classification: Horn
- Credit Line: Gift of Cutler Bonestell through his wife, Elizabeth Bonestell, 1937
- Object Number: 37.139a, b
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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18th century
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