Lotus cup
Culture
Chinese
DateQing Dynasty (1644–1911)
Mediumnephrite
Dimensions11.4 x 5.1 cm (4 1/2 x 2 in.)
ClassificationsJades
Credit LineGift of John and Maria Dirlam
Object number1999.441
Label TextThe shape of this cup is Chinese, but its encircling lotus blooms and flower-shaped foot reveal the influence of Mughal art which was so rich in floral decoration. In the Islamic context, flowers, fruits and leaves are associated with an abundant, ever-blooming, water-laden garden that the believer might enter after death.
To the Chinese, the lotus, one of the Eight Buddhist Symbols, symbolizes purity and the truth preached by Buddha that immediately bore the fruits of enlightenment. By the Song dynasty (960-1279) the lotus had also become associated with virtuous Confucian gentlemen. Of wide appeal, many lotus-shaped vessels were made for courtiers and scholars during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties.On View
Not on view
Chinese
early 18th century, Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
Chinese
17th century, late Ming or early Qing dynasty
