Carved rhinoceros horn cup in the shape of a lotus leaf, Ming dynasty (1368-1644)-China Archive

Image Number: C1G000006N000000000PAE
Dynasty: Ming dynasty
Category: Carvings
Function: Container
Material: Animal/horn/rhinoceros horn
Description:
The sea ban was implemented in the Ming Dynasty, and Guangzhou Port became the distribution center of all national specialties. Rhinoceros horn was produced in Southeast Asia and imported to Guangzhou from its origin, which was used as precious medicinal materials and excellent carving materials. In the late Ming Dynasty, the economy was prosperous, and all kinds of stationery and curios were popular. Rhinoceros horn carving combined all kinds of skills and styles to become a precious collection of stationery and curios, which was in line with the luxury taste at that time. The lotus leaf is carved as a cup, and there are lotus flowers in full bloom beside it. The water chestnut coexisting with it is interlaced, and there are snails parasitic on it. It is smooth and realistic to depict a corner of the lotus pond, which looks lively. In addition, there is a bas relief of “First Class Bearing Sky, Showing Autumn Lotus, Holy Grace. Gu Daming”. (Quoted from Asia Adventures: The Legend of East West Communication in the 17th Century)