清 犀角雕玉蘭杯|Cup in the shape of a magnolia blossom

Unknown

18th century · Rhinoceros horn · Asian Art

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.

Artist

Unknown

Date

18th century

Medium

Rhinoceros horn

Culture

China

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of Cutler Bonestell through his wife, Elizabeth Bonestell, 1937