Object

Cup with poem design
  • Carved lacquer
  • China, Qing dynasty, Qianlong period, 1746
  • Collection of National Museum of China
This teacup bears a poem, Sanqing Tea, written by Emperor Qianlong in October 1746. Sanqing tea, made from melted snow with plum blossoms, pine nuts, and Buddha’s hand was a favorite of the emperor. He encouraged his ministers to compose poems about this tea, popularizing the theme. The inscription on the bottom confirms it was produced during the Qianlong period.