This exquisite jade goblet set from the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 24) is crafted from five different materials! The cup and its stem are intricately carved from a single piece of jade stone, resting on a wooden base. A lobed jade plate encircles the waist of the goblet, with its lobes held by three small reptiles with golden heads and silver bodies. The reptiles’ tails connect to a bronze saucer at the bottom.
Unearthed from the tomb of Nanyue King Zhao Mo (175-122 BC), this goblet is believed to have been used to collect dew, reflecting the ancient pursuit of immortality. It is now housed in the Nanyue King Museum.
Exhibition
Young imaginations on vibrant display
Exhibition
Louvre exhibits show influence of China