• Reading Public Museum
    Open 11a-5p DailyAdmission
  • Neag Planetarium
    Show ScheduleAdmission
  • Arboretum
    Open everyday from sunrise to sunset
Collections Menu

Libation Cup

Culture: Chinese

Date: late 18th century
Medium: rhinoceros horn, teakwood
Dimensions:
Overall (including base): 5 x 6 5/8 x 4 3/8 in. (12.7 x 16.8 x 11.1 cm)
Credit Line:Gift, Katharine and William A. Arnold
Object number: 1953.19.2

This cup is carved with natural motifs including apples, grapes and leaf clusters.

Originally, Chinese ceremonial rhinoceros horn libation cups were collector's items, given as gifts to successful scholars. There are numerous references in early Chinese historical literature to objects made of rhinoceros horn. It was thought by Taoists to have magical properties as well as being valued as an aphrodisiac. By the Tang Dynasty (618-806 AD) it was carved into cups which were given to scholars who successfully passed their examinations.

In Collection(s)