Libation Cup

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.