Jade Flower Goblet with Three Chi Patterns

This piece of jade takes the shape from bronze Gu, a type of wine vessels of the Shang and Zhou dynasties. The top and the base are carved with petal patterns, while the waist bears three Chi-dragons (hornless dragons) in relief. At the bottom of the vessel there is a mark indicating that it was made in the Qianlong reign. Carved from high-quality yellow jade, this delicate Gu exemplifies the top level of jade carving technique of the Qing Dynasty.

[Collection of the Shanghai Art Museum]