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Peach Cup
Peach Cup
Image © 2007 Worcester Art Museum, all rights reserved.

Peach Cup

Artist
Dateearly 17th century, Ming Dynasty (1368–1644)
Mediumgrayish green nephrite with brown veins
ClassificationsJades
Credit LineBequest of Mrs. Harry W. Goddard, in memory of Harry W. Goddard
Object number1938.68
DescriptionA round shallow cup of brown jade within a network of dragons and foliage.
Label TextPeach Cup Nephrite; Ming dynasty (1368 - 1644), early 17th century Bequest of Mrs. Harry W. Goddard, in memory of Harry W. Goddard, 1938.68 Shaped like a peach of immortality, the cup is surrounded by intricate openwork depicting foliated and blooming peach branches, lingzhi fungus, pine needles and a qi dragon. Since "peach" (tao) is a homophone for the word "expel," peach blossoms and peaches are traditionally associated with driving out evil. The wooden base is carved with a motif of finger citrons, a fragrant fruit with supple tendrils popularly called Buddha's Hand (fu shou). The citron is regarded as a symbol for happiness (fu), longevity (shou) and wealth; it is often placed as an offering on Buddhist altars.
On View
On view
Current Location
  • Exhibition Location  Gallery 112
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