Title
Puzzle Cup
Creator
Date
c. 1650
Description
A puzzle cup (Chinese, Qing Dynasty, c. 1650) composed of Dehua (also known as Te-hua) porcelain. The five lobed body is molded with veined petals around the bottom, the whole is raised on five short feet in the form of a crab, fish, two snails, and a flower, standing in the cup interior is a figure of Budai (or Pu-Tai) holding a fly whisk. The figure of Budai, a Buddhist monk known by his laughing face and round exposed belly, covers a small hole in the bottom of the cup. When filled to the top the puzzle cup (also known as a trick cup) would dribble liquid on the unsuspecting holder.
Dehua porcelain was made in the Dehua kilns of Fujian Province, it is characterized by its thick clear glaze and white paste. It is popularly referred to in the west by the French term blanc de chine.
Dehua porcelain was made in the Dehua kilns of Fujian Province, it is characterized by its thick clear glaze and white paste. It is popularly referred to in the west by the French term blanc de chine.
Cultural Origin
Chinese
Medium
porcelain
Extent
2.125" x 3.125" x 3.375"
Collection
Source
Gift of the Estate of Mr. and Mrs. Edward J. Berwind, II, 2008.
Identifier
PSNC.11856
For more information about this item, please contact its owning institution.